First Production Flight Made by Cessna TTx

 

March 7, 2013 - Cessna's first production model TTx made its first flight last Saturday, March 2, the company reported Wednesday. The single-engine, four-place composite aircraft was announced last April at Sun 'n Fun as the Corvalis TTx, claiming to be the fastest single-engine fixed-gear production airplane.

"The TTx performed exceptionally well," said Brian Steele, business leader for the TTx, adding that the airplane flew to 17,000 feet reaching a speed of 213 kts. Cessna said the TTx has a top speed of 235 kts (270 mph) and an operating ceiling of 25,000 feet. An optional flight into known icing (FIKI) system is available.

At long-range settings, the TTx can fly across the United States with only a single stop, Cessna said. The TTx is the first aircraft equipped with the Garmin G2000 avionics system, featuring a glass cockpit with dual 14.1-inch high-definition displays and touch-screen controls. It also has Garmin's Electronic Stability Protection (ESP) system to help pilots stay within the aircraft's normal flight envelope.

Power comes from the Continental TSIO-550-C, generating 310 hp and turning a three-blade McCauley constant-speed prop.

"Being able to celebrate the maiden flight of the first production TTx is a rewarding experience for everyone who has helped with making the TTx a reality," said Jodi Noah, Cessna's senior vice president of single-engine/propeller aircraft. "This program has many passionate followers, and this is a moment we've all been eagerly anticipating. Congratulations to the team for delivering on Cessna's promise, and for taking this next step towards delivering the TTx to the marketplace."

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