The King Air® C90GTx is a whole new world of flying that offers the impressive King Air qualities of performance combined with comfort. This versatile workhorse has great range and payload due to its features like composite winglets, swept-blade propellers, and dual aft strakes. The King Air C90GTx is a favorite aircraft.
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Thrush Aircraft Establishes $35,000 Bonus Incentive On New Aircraft Purchased Before January 31, 2020
(Albany, Georgia) Thrush Aircraft has announced the return of its popular “Thrush Bucks” program, which rewards the purchaser of every new Thrush with $35,000 that can be spent on parts, options or training programs at the company. The Thrush Bucks program was first unveiled at the 2014 NAAA Convention and proved an immediate success. So much so that customers continued to ask about it years after it initially concluded.
“We understand buyers have choice – not only in the aircraft they choose, but in the timing of their purchase” said Eric Rojek, vice president of Thrush Aircraft. “And to help make that decision a little easier, and hopefully a little faster, we decided to re-instate Thrush Bucks for a limited time.”
The Thrush Bucks incentive program will be in place between now and January 31, 2020. To qualify, a customer need only place an order for a new Thrush, along with a standard deposit. In return, Thrush will award the customer $35,000 in Thrush Bucks, which can be spend on parts, options or any one of the company’s training programs for their new aircraft.
“We wanted to be sure and have this program in place prior to the new spray seasons – both in the U.S. and around the world – to enable buyers to obtain a build slot that would ensure their new aircraft was ready to go right to work” said Mr. Rojek. “It truly represents a win-win for both our customers and for our company – and, most important, it puts more new Thrush aircraft in air and working hard in a short amount of time.”
“$35,000 is a significant amount of money that will hopefully turn the head of just about any operator” Mr. Rojek continued. “It’s our way of putting some additional proof and real strength behind our message that that Thrush is back – and back stronger than ever.”
For more information on the Thrush Bucks program, or to place an order for a new Thrush, customers are invited to call Eric Rojek at (229) 789-0437.
Aircraft Thrush Aircraft Produces
510G
The most dramatic innovation in agricultural aviation since the turbine engine could very well be the Thrush 510G. We’ve teamed exclusively with GE to produce this new-generation aircraft powered by the GE H80 turbine engine. The H80 provides increased temperature margins to enhance hot-day takeoff performance and high-altitude cruise speeds. This takes the 510G model to new levels of performance with a power output of 800 SHP above 100º F, increased SHP, lighter airframe, not to mention a low acquisition cost. And, like all Thrush aircraft, the 510G delivers plenty of thrust for full payload performance without sacrificing one bit of its amazingly agile handling.
510P
Year after year, the Thrush 510P sets the standard for low maintenance, great handling, and the highest performance in its class. That’s not surprising since the Pratt & Whitney Canada PT6-A powered 510P has continually evolved to take advantage of the latest technologies available. From MVP engine monitoring to advanced wire strike protection, the 510P is designed and built to work as hard as you do—and, like every Thrush, deliver the level of productivity, security and value you’ve come to expect from the most innovative aircraft manufacturer in the business.
Engine
Pratt & Whitney PT6A-34AG
Hopper capacity Liquid
510 Gallons (1,930 liters) Dry: 66 cu ft (1.87 cu meters)
Typical operating weight
10,500 lbs (4,763 kg)
Takeoff distance at 10,500 lbs
1,530 feet (466 m)
Landing distance w/reverse
400 ft (122 m)
Cruising speed at 55% power
150 mph (241 kph)
550P
Imagine an aircraft that has set the ag industry standard for tough dependability and you’ve got the Thrush 550P. It offers you a 29,000-hour wing spar life and a 550-gallon clear-view hopper. No wonder this aircraft is renowned for its solidly rugged construction and revered for its simplified systems and worry-free maintenance. Now add the fact that its wide-stance spring landing gear is capable of absorbing 8,800 pounds on short, rough strips and its optional spring steel landing gear can be added to increase weight for takeoffs and landings, and you can pretty much check off whatever’s on your “to-do” list.
Engine
Pratt & Whitney PT6A-60AG
Hopper capacity – liquid
550 Gallons (2,081 liters)
Hopper capacity – dry
66 cu ft (1.93 cu meters)
Typical operating weight
10,500 lbs (4,763 kg)
Takeoff distance at 10,500 lbs
1,077 ft (328 m)
Landing distance – w/reverse
400 ft (122 m)
Cruising speed at 55% power
150 mph (241 kph)
Ferry range at 45% power
770 sm (1,238 km)
710P
The new Thrush 710P is one of the world’s most powerful ag planes featuring one of the best swath and spray patterns available today. Plus, it boasts incredibly stable flight characteristics with performance to match. The 710P is one of those airplanes that descriptions do not do justice—you have to fly one for yourself to see if they’re really as good as everyone says. And when you push the throttle, you’ll feel the power and control you won’t find in any other airplane. Of course, the fact that it’s the crop spraying airplane of choice for negotiating rough strips, small fields, and obstacles should make you feel pretty darn good about the 710P, too.
Engine
Pratt & Whitney PT6A-65AG
Hopper capacity – liquid
710 Gallons (2,687 liters)
Hopper capacity – dry
TBD
Typical operating weight
14,150 lbs (6,418 kg)
Takeoff distance at 14,150 lbs
1,598 ft (487 m)
Landing distance – w/reverse
600 ft (122 m)
Cruising speed at 55% power
150 mph (241 kph)
Ferry range at 55% power
600 sm (966 km)
About Thrush Aircraft Company
Headquartered in Albany, Georgia, Thrush Aircraft manufactures a full range of aerial application aircraft used in agriculture, forestry and firefighting roles worldwide. Founded in 2003, Thrush is well-known for building the most durable aircraft in the aerial application and firefighting industries – as well as the best flying – from both pilot and operator perspectives. All Thrush models provide superb visibility, light control response, and a high degree of maneuverability and speed, along with superior efficiency and low direct operating costs. Today there are more than 2,400 Thrush aircraft operating in some 80 countries around the world.
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King Air 350 Gets New Nose
Textron Aviation has introduced a new utility nose option for the Beechcraft King Air 350 turboprop. The new nose adds 12 cubic feet of storage space capable of holding up to 250 pounds of additional payload. The utility nose can be used on King Air 350 variants including the 350C cargo version and 350ER extended-range model. The modification is FAA-certified and compatible with both the PT6A-60A and PT6A-67A engines.
“This modification is a response to customer interest in optimizing the flexibility of our King Air 350 platform—equipping the aircraft with additional space for baggage or for special mission applications—and increasing loading configurations,” said Textron Vice President of Defense & Special Missions Sales Bob Gibbs. “The Beechcraft King Air offers the widest range of mission capabilities of our broad product lineup, and we remain committed to continuously enhancing the platform to ensure our customers have the capability to succeed, no matter the mission.”
According to Textron, more than 7500 King Airs have been delivered since the model’s introduction in 1964. Over the last 55 years, the King Air fleet has logged more than 60 million flight hours.
About the Beechcraft King Air turboprop
More than 7,500 Beechcraft King Air turboprops have been delivered to customers around the world since 1964, making it the best-selling business turboprop family in the world. The worldwide fleet has surpassed 60 million flight hours in its first 55 years, flying business missions ranging from traditional passenger and cargo transport to electronic and imagery surveillance, air ambulance, flight inspection, photographic mapping, training and weather modification
Via Textron Aviation.
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Piper Unveils Next Generation M600
Piper Aircraft introduced the next generation of its M600 single-engine turboprop on Wednesday. The M600 SLS—standing for safety, luxury, and support—will come equipped with Garmin’s newly announced Autoland system, which Piper says will make it “the first general aviation aircraft in the world to be certified with Autoland capability.” It also features Piper’s HALO Safety System, which includes autothrottle, Emergency Descent Mode, Enhanced Stability and Protection, Surface Watch, Safe Taxi and Flight Stream connectivity.
“The M600 SLS and its HALO Safety System with Autoland is the result of an unwavering commitment to safety as well as the desire to evolve our products based on market input,” said President and CEO Simon Caldecott. “The HALO System greatly enhances situational awareness and operational safety through the use of advanced technology and is one the most significant advancements in general aviation history. The team at Piper Aircraft is proud that we will be first to market with Garmin Autoland, which will ultimately help pave the way for others.”
The pressurized, six-seat M600 SLS is equipped with Garmin’s G3000 avionics suite and powered by the Pratt & Whitney PT6A-42A engine. It has a top cruise speed of 274 knots, range of 1,658 NM and maximum approved altitude of 30,000 feet. According to Piper, certification of the M600 SLS is “imminent” and the company expects to begin deliveries this quarter. The aircraft is priced at around $2.994 million.
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Pilatus delivers 1,700th PC-12 to Jetfly
Pilatus has delivered its 1,700th PC-12, around 25 years after the first example of the single-engined turboprop entered service.
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3 Key Benefits of Oil Analysis Technology
This article originally appeared on the P&WC Airtime Blog.
Recently added to the ESP™ plan, our (Pratt & Whitney Canada’s) Oil Analysis Technology is a powerful diagnostic and prognostic tool that helps customers avoid unscheduled events. We outline some key benefits below.
1. A SIMPLE, USER-FRIENDLY SAMPLING PROCEDURE
Taking routine oil samples from your engine and sending them for analysis is a fast, simple process that gives detailed insights into engine health that wouldn’t otherwise be possible.
This technology enables operators like Germany’s Arcus Air, an airline that offers chartered cargo and corporate flights, to plan maintenance in advance, thereby minimizing the risk of unscheduled events and maximizing engine availability.
Pratt & Whitney’s Oil Analysis Technology is a powerful tool that helps us better understand the health of our engines. We receive clear and concise data that allow for a quick overview but also for deep insights. Daniel Bürcky, Chief of Maintenance, Arcus Air
The sampling procedure is designed to be as user-friendly as possible. We provide customers with a kit that contains everything they need, from a syringe and tube or O-rings for collecting the oil to a pre-paid envelope with all the necessary paperwork for sending the sample to the lab in Canada.
Customers simply need to collect a sample during scheduled engine maintenance, then have the package picked up by FedEx. In return, they’ll receive a report outlining the results, along with recommended follow-up actions.
The sampling interval is typically from 200 to 300 hours, meaning that for a typical business jet or general aviation operator, samples only need to be taken once or twice a year, notes Frédérique Richard, Senior Manager, Oil Analysis Technology.
2. EXPERT INSIGHTS THAT ENHANCE OPERATIONAL CONFIDENCE
Oil analysis technology is used to monitor trace particles in oil-wetted components such as carbon seals, gears and bearings. It compares their current condition with the signature of other healthy engines in the fleet. Once a component deteriorates past a certain threshold, our team will provide specific maintenance recommendations.
It’s like going to the doctor to have a blood sample taken, explains Frédérique. If the doctor analyzes your blood and sees that you have a health issue, like slightly high cholesterol, she’ll suggest doing something like changing your diet or exercising more. Our Oil Analysis Technology works in a similar way.
We look at the data and if anything needs to be done, we help customers figure out the right next steps. We give them a tailored ‘prescription’ – a specific maintenance recommendation to address the matter before it becomes an issue. Frédérique Richard, Senior Manager, Oil Analysis Technology
The insights gained from this technology therefore give customers greater operational confidence by letting them know when they should keep a closer eye on specific components or take action to repair or replace them.
One example is carbon seals. If these components are left to deteriorate, it could eventually lead to unplanned maintenance events, which may entail unexpected costs like hangar rental, spare engine shipment or cancelled revenue flights.
All of that could be avoided with our Oil Analysis Technology.
“In some cases, we can tell hundreds of flight hours in advance if a carbon seal is deteriorating,” says Frédérique. “Once we see that, we’ll issue a recommendation to monitor its condition more frequently. When action is required, we’ll advise the operator to proactively remove the engine at the next scheduled maintenance and send it to the shop for replacement.”
Thanks to this technology, we’ve been able to identify early deterioration patterns and recommend proactive maintenance on a number of engines. These customers were able to schedule maintenance and avoid the disruption of situations such as cabin air contamination and metal in oil. Frédérique Richard, Senior Manager, Oil Analysis Technology
3. A CONTINUOUSLY EVOLVING TECHNOLOGY
To date, with the help of customers around the world who want to go beyond basic engine maintenance and are embracing early detection, we have collected tens of thousands of oil samples.
The more data there is to work with, the more detailed and accurate our Oil Analysis Technology becomes, because it’s not static. It continues to evolve, as the new data helps us to refine engine oil signatures and fine-tune our algorithms.
“It’s an ongoing journey,” says Frédérique. “We keep investing in the technology and working to improve it.”
The advanced analytics that we use allow us to go deeper than human analysis alone could accomplish. This enables us to identify engines at risk of a particular issue, prioritize maintenance work, and ultimately drive operational improvements, cost savings and greater engine availability Frédérique Richard, Senior Manager, Oil Analysis
technology combined with other technologies such as our FAST™ solution, it enables customers to understand their engine inside out and fly with peace of mind. If our Oil Analysis Technology is like a blood test, FAST is like an MRI. These prognostic and diagnostic tools complement each other, contributing to a more holistic view of engine health.
Oil Analysis Technology is one of several recent additions to our ESP™ maintenance program. Learn more here.
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E1000 Deliveries to start Next Month
Epic Aircraft has said that it will begin deliveries of its E1000 single-engined turbo-prop (SETP) in December after the US Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) certified the aircraft earlier this month.
The E1000 has been through a seven-year development program that has taken the aircraft from a kit-only model to full certification.
“This is a remarkable accomplishment for our entire community,” said Epic CEO, Doug King. “I want to thank our employees, who have worked so diligently to deliver this exceptional design, as well as our partners, suppliers, and customers who have faithfully supported us each step of the way.
“It has been a true team effort, along with the fantastic support of the FAA.”
The E1000 is based on the company’s experimental Epic LT model, which was introduced to the market in 2005 through an owner-assist build program.
“Transitioning that design into a certified version was the chance to offer a truly compelling product to the industry, a ‘no compromises’ aircraft that customers would really want. And they do,” King added.
Epic says it has over 80 confirmed E1000 reservations from around the world, including the USA, Canada, Mexico, Central and South America, Europe, Russia, South Africa and Australia.
King said that the company could have achieved certification earlier by cutting some corners, but they weren’t prepared to compromise on the aircraft.
“We had some opportunities to speed things up along the way, to get certification earlier,” he said, “but that would have required some trade-offs that we weren’t willing to make. We consider performance to be our brand, so we decided to make it perform.”
The E1000 is a six-seat carbon-fibre aircraft powered by a PT6A-67A turbo-prop engine putting out 1200 shp. The book figures show a maximum speed of 325 KTAS, certified ceiliing of 34,000 feet and a maximum range at economy cruise of 1650 nm.
Read more at http://www.australianflying.com.au/latest/e1000-deliveries-to-start-next-month#ZK9frTlSuftgzZvq.99
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Blackhawk’s 20th Year Sets the Stage For Future Growth
Blackhawk purchased an adjacent 10,000 square foot hangar and offices to house their growing sales and marketing teams.
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A Turbine Otter Aged to Perfection
It’s a common sight in British Columbia, where much of the rugged and breathtakingly scenic coast is accessible only by floatplane. From its base in Campbell River, Vancouver Island Air (VIA) is among the specialized air carriers that can take you wherever you need to go in coastal B.C.
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Super STOL “Draco” to be Revived
Mike Patey announces major restoration of turbine Wilga after devastating crash.
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