BUOYANT BEECHCRAFT PROMISES NEW AIRCRAFT

21 May 2013

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A new single-engine turboprop, diesel engine versions of the Bonanza single and Baron twin, and new version of the King Air are in the pipeline for a resurgent Beechcraft.

Shawn Vick, president of Beechcraft, was ebullient speaking at EBACE, saying 2013 had started well for the company, which came out of receivership last year. Beechcraft is increasing its R&D spending by 300% to produce new models.

The diesel engine Bonanza and Baron could be on the market as soon as the end of this year, which means Beechcraft must be looking at existing engine - such as the Thielert Centurion turbodiesels. However, Beechcraft is confirming any more details just yet.

Sales of King Air are particularly strong, with Europe buying 50% over the period 2008-2012 compared with the previous five years. France and Germany are the largest markets, ecah buying 78 aircraft. The UK is close behind on 74 aircraft.

Beechcraft also announced the start of flight tests for the winglet component of its Hawker 400XPR jet (imager above) upgrade program. The Hawker 400XPR upgrade package offers several factory approved airframe modifications to significantly improve performance, operating cost and resale value. The upgrade includes Williams International FJ44-4A-32 engines along with optional Rockwell Collins Pro Line 21 avionics and a number of system enhancements.

LINKS
Beechcraft
EBACE

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