Cessna Introduces Garmin G1000 and TKS Ice Protection for Caravan; Increases Production Rate

Cessna Aircraft Company, a Textron Inc. (NYSE: TXT) company, today announced the Garmin G1000 integrated avionics package, which includes the GFC700 flight control system, will be standard equipment for all Caravan models: the Cessna 208, the Grand Caravan (208B) and the Super CargoMaster, with incorporation beginning in the first half of 2008.

The Garmin G1000 system designed for the Caravan includes three 10” displays – two primary flight displays (PFD) and one multi function display (MFD). One of the PFDs can serve as a back up, increasing dispatch ability. The Caravan G1000 system incorporates the GFC700 – an integrated, dual-channel digital autopilot. Other features include a flight director, go-around mode and Wide Area Augmentation System (WAAS) which can provide precision guidance to airports where there are currently no precision approaches. It also includes SafeTaxiTM – a graphical representation of the aircraft on the ground in the airport environment in relation to labeled taxiways, runways and buildings during taxi. Radar, TAWS-B, XM radio and XM weather are optional features.

Cessna will also offer optional TKS ice protection from Aerospace Systems & Technology, Inc. on cargo pod-equipped Caravans scheduled for delivery during the first half of 2008. The TKS ice protection system releases glycol based fluid through laser-drilled panels on the leading edges of the wings, horizontal and vertical stabilizers to prevent ice accumulation. A slinger ring on the propeller also emits fluid to keep the prop, windshield, cargo pod and landing gear free of ice.

Cessna’s Caravan orders this year have already reached 200% of the goal for 2007 leading to production rates beginning in 2008 that are more than double recent volumes.