In the latest step of Cessna’s partnership with Aviation Industry Corporation of China (AVIC), the manufacturer announced May 3 that the foundation is being laid for final assembly of Caravans to take place in the People’s Republic of China. Those aircraft would then be sold and supported within the country.
The agreement was forged with China Aviation Industry General Aircraft Company (whose parent company is AVIC) and the Shijiazhuang municipal government and comes on the heels of a joint-venture announcement with AVIC, paving the way for Cessna aircraft to be produced in the country. As AOPA reported in March, the partnership would be to produce business jets like the Sovereign and Latitude. Cessna also appointed an authorized Citation service facility in Beijing.
Continuing down the popular product line, the Caravan proved another appealing option. It will undergo final assembly as well as painting, flight testing, interior installation, and customization at CAIGA’s plants in Shijiazhuang. Deliveries to customers in China also will be based at the facility.
“We have seen interest for the Caravan for use in commuter aviation fleets as well as China’s growing tourist and sightseeing businesses,” said Lannie O’Bannion, business leader of Caravan aircraft, in a news release. “The versatility of the Caravan makes it a great fit for this market.”
