Independence, Kansas

Civil Air Patrol orders 21 new Cessna aircraft to strengthen lifesaving and community missions

Textron Aviation has announced an order from Civil Air Patrol (CAP) for 21 additional Cessna piston aircraft that will support CAP's emergency response, training and community missions across the US. Deliveries are expected to be completed in 2027.

The order includes seven Cessna Skyhawk 172 aircraft, 11 Cessna Skylane 182 aircraft, two Cessna Turbo Skylane T182T aircraft and one Cessna Turbo Stationair HD 206 aircraft. CAP is the world's largest operator of Cessna aircraft.

“These Cessna aircraft help ensure our members are ready when communities need us, whether searching for someone who is missing, responding after a disaster, or introducing young people to aviation,” said Major General Regena Aye, national commander and CEO, Civil Air Patrol. “Our longstanding relationship with Textron Aviation helps give our members the reliable aircraft they need to serve our communities, states, and the nation.”

Maj. Gen. Regena Aye and Brig. Gen. R. Jason Bailey of the Civil Air Patrol tour Cessna piston assembly at Textron Aviation’s facility in Independence, Kansas.

As a nonprofit and the US Air Force Auxiliary, CAP serves as a cost-effective force multiplier for military and government partners through emergency services, joint training and youth programs. Its 72,000 members, including 35,000 adults and 37,000 youth, operate from 1,424 locations nationwide, supported by thousands of emergency services professionals and a fleet of 543 single-engine aircraft.

“Civil Air Patrol has a remarkable ability to turn flight hours into real impact for communities across the country,” said Bob Gibbs, vice president, Defense & Special Mission Sales, Textron Aviation. “From search and rescue to disaster response and aviation education, these missions demand aircraft that are capable, dependable and ready to serve. We’re proud that Cessna aircraft continue to play a role in helping CAP fulfill that mission.”