SkyCourier
Cessna
408
40 Vol. 10 / No. 5 / May 2018 Global Aviator
Aircraft on the horizon
Scheduled to enter service in
2020, the aircraft will be available
in cargo and passenger versions for
high utilisation operations. It will
offer the capacity to transport up to
19 passengers or 2,722kg of payload.
In cargo configuration, SkyCourier
will feature a flat floor cabin, which
can house three LD3 shipping
containers. Container and palle
loading will be facilitated through
a large 87in x 69in cargo door.
The commuter variant will offer
easy boarding through its large crew
and passenger doors. Natural light
within a cabin makes for a more
relaxed flight and the 408's spacious
cabin will be fitted with large windows
for better views and to ensure an
ample supply of light. The single-
point pressure refuelling capability of
the cargo and commuter aircraft will
further deliver faster turnarounds.Engines
The Cessna SkyCourier 408 will be
powered by two Pratt & Whitney
Canada PT6A-65SC enginesCessna SkyCourier 408 is a new twin-engine, high-wing, large-utility turboprop
being developed by Textron Aviation for launch customer, FedEx Express. The
company has placed an order of 100 SkyCourier 408 aircraft, including firm
orders of 50 cargo aircraft and options for 50 more aircraft, taking monthly
deliveries over four years starting in 2020, and a similar pace for a second
batch, if the option is taken up. The advanced features and capabilities of
the 408 will boost FedEx’s long-term feeder modernisation strategy.
developing a maximum power of
1,100shp. The PT6A engine will
enhance performance and reliability
of the aircraft, while minimising fuel
consumption. The versatile engine is
designed with innovative aerodynamic
and material technologies to develop
additional power without increasing
its size. The engines will be coupled to
two Blackmac four-bladed aluminium
full feathering reversible propellers
that will deliver high performance
and reliability at low operating costs.