Textron Aviation to use McCauley props on several models

Textron Aviation says it expects performance enhancements for several of its top models after selecting McCauley propellers for the Cessna Grand Caravan EX, Cessna TTx, and Beechcraft Baron.

Textron Aviation officials cited recent innovations as the reason for selecting McCauley propellers.

The Cessna Grand Caravan EX will get 15 pounds extra payload, increased ground clearance of two inches, a 10 percent improvement in climb performance, and a longer interval between propeller overhauls with McCauley's Blackmac series four-blade aluminum propeller, Textron Aviation said. Certification of the Blackmac is expected later in 2015.

Cessna TTx customers who choose a McCauley propeller as an option will get an improvement in useful load of 35 pounds, a smoother ride, and improved resistance to impact and blade corrosion, according to Textron Aviation. The McCauley Blackmac Carbon series is approved for the TTx, Columbia 400, Cessna 400 and Corvalis TT. It will be available later in the year. Other models are under consideration for the propeller.

The Baron will get McCauley C512 aluminum propellers as standard equipment. The propellers are 10 pounds lighter than those currently installed on the Baron, making a savings of 20 pounds for the two propellers. Installation should be available in a few weeks.

McCauley Propeller Systems is a division of Cessna Aircraft Co.; Cessna and Beechcraft comprise Textron Aviation.

In other news Beechcraft Corp. has received type certification from the FAA for the latest version of its new production Beechcraft King Air 250 turboprop, allowing deliveries to commence this quarter. The upgraded King Air is equipped with the Pro Line Fusion avionics system and new cabin enhancements. It is on display at EAA AirVenture 2015.