Textron celebrates first Cessna SkyCourier order in Indonesia

Representatives from Textron Aviation and PT Smart Aviation celebrated the company’s purchase agreement for the first Cessna SkyCourier order in Indonesia.

The agreement, signed during the Singapore Airshow, includes a SkyCourier passenger variant and four Cessna Grand Caravan EXs with deliveries expected to begin in 2026. PT Smart Aviation will expand their business and their capabilities in weather modification, cargo and passenger flights.

Representatives from Textron Aviation and Smart PT during signing ceremony at the Singapore Airshow (representatives from left to right; Juan Escalante (seated), Lachlan Cullen, Pongky Majaya (seated), Marianna Elias, Jodie Bevan, Tony Jones (seated), Lerry Janurengers).

“The SkyCourier's exceptional capabilities, combined with its cost-effectiveness and versatile cabin design, make it a true game-changer in Indonesia,” said Lannie O’Bannion, senior vice president, Global Sales and Flight Operations. “This order underscores our commitment to delivering cutting-edge solutions to meet the evolving needs of the aviation industry. We are excited to witness the transformative impact it will have in connecting communities and driving progress in Indonesia and beyond.”

For PT Smart, these additional aircraft will strengthen their current fixed wing fleet, totaling 23 units. PT Smart is strategically bolstering its aviation capabilities to support operational activities in remote areas across Indonesia. This move not only aligns with PT Smart's commitment to aiding the nation's operations but also signifies a leap towards advancing aviation capabilities in Indonesia.

The Cessna SkyCourier twin-engine, high-wing turboprop offers a combination of performance and lower operating costs for air freight, commuter and special mission operators. It’s available in both freighter and passenger versions. The 19-passenger variant includes crew and passenger doors for smooth boarding, as well as large cabin windows for natural light and views. Both configurations offer single-point pressure refueling to enable faster turnarounds. The freighter variant features a large door and a flat floor cabin that is sized to handle up to three LD3 shipping containers with an impressive 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, a heavy-duty and reliable 110-inch aluminum four-blade propeller, which is full feathering with reversible pitch, designed to enhance the performance of the aircraft while hauling tremendous loads. The SkyCourier is operated with Garmin G1000 NXi avionics and has a maximum cruise speed of more than 200 ktas, with a 900 nautical-mile maximum range.

BlueSky Business Aviation News | 7th March 2024 | Issue #738