A new combi option for the Cessna SkyCourier has received approval from the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) in the United States (US).
The new combi interior conversion option allows for both passengers and cargo to be flown simultaneously, marking the Cessna SkyCourier as a truly versatile aircraft.
Textron Aviation, which owns the Cessna brand, announced on May 20, 2024, that the new option will allow operators to transport nine passengers and cargo at the same time.
Deliveries of the new aircraft configuration are expected to begin later this year.
“This newly certified combi kit adds to the growing list of options for the versatile Cessna SkyCourier,” said Lannie O’Bannion, Senior Vice President of Global Sales and Flight Operations at Textron. “The Combi will allow operators to use the aircraft for an even broader range of missions globally and quickly change configurations to best serve their needs.”
Currently the Cessna SkyCourier twin-engine, high-wing turboprop is available in both freighter and passenger variant as well with a gravel kit option for maximum flexibility.
Textron says its current customers of the SkyCourier include government agencies, law enforcement and militaries, corporations, and humanitarian organizations.
The aircraft can be operated by a single pilot and can carry up to 19 passengers without cargo onboard while as a freighter the Cessna SkyCourier can transport up to three LD3 shipping containers with a 6,000 pounds of payload capability.
The aircraft is powered by two wing-mounted Pratt & Whitney PT6A-65SC turboprop engines and features the McCauley Propeller C779 four-blade propeller.
The SkyCourier has a 900 nautical-mile maximum range.