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Beechcraft Denali set for certification in 2025 after extended development

Beechcraft Denali set for certification in 2025 after extended development
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Beechcraft Denali | Textron Aviation

The Beechcraft Denali, a new turboprop aircraft by Textron Aviation, is nearing certification after a lengthy development process that began in 2016. Originally branded as a Cessna product, it was rebranded as a Beechcraft in 2021 and is expected to soon roll out from Textron's Wichita, Kansas facilities.

The Denali features the GE Catalyst 1300-CS1A engine by GE Aerospace. This single-engine turboprop uses torque from its five-blade propeller for propulsion. The Catalyst engine promises performance improvements over competitors in the single-engine turboprop market.

Turboprop engines combine turbine and propeller technology. Unlike turbofan engines used in larger jets, they have additional gearboxes that reduce turbine speed for more efficient fuel consumption at lower speeds. The Denali's maximum cruising speed is 285 knots with a range of 1,600 nautical miles.

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Development of the Catalyst engine involved additive manufacturing techniques and advanced alloys but faced delays due to its complexity. Certification was delayed from an initial target of 2021 to now being expected in 2025.

Textron Aviation and General Electric aim to deliver significant fuel savings with the Catalyst engine while increasing power output at altitude by up to 10%. The Denali can accommodate up to 11 passengers with optional executive seating and features modern avionics including Garmin G3000 and emergency autoland systems.

Competition includes the Pilatus PC-12 NGX which shares similar features like FADEC and auto-throttle systems. Textron hopes its extensive maintenance network will help capture market share from Pilatus.

Despite delays, flight testing has progressed with over 2,000 hours logged across three prototypes since their first flights in 2021. Certification is anticipated next year alongside the Catalyst engine's approval.

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