Textron Aviation is set to captivate the audience at the upcoming Singapore Airshow (February 20-25, 2024) with a showcase of its industry-leading products, capabilities, and global customer support. Visitors to the Changi Exhibition Centre can expect to see a diverse selection of aircraft, highlighting Textron Aviation’s strength in the Asia Pacific region.

The Singapore Airshow is Asia’s most influential international aerospace and defence exhibition, allowing stakeholders to form strategic alliances and collaborate for change to shape the future of the global aviation industry. The Singapore Airshow 2024 will feature the latest commercial and military aircraft, as well as aerobatic flying teams performing adrenaline-pumping stunts and manoeuvres with speed and precision.

The company’s display will feature the versatile Beechcraft King Air 360, known for its impressive performance and spacious cabin. Additionally, a special mission-equipped Cessna Grand Caravan EX with floats will demonstrate Textron’s ability to tailor aircraft for specific needs. Notably, Cessna Caravans command a 30% share of the regional turboprop market.

Business jet enthusiasts will be drawn to the popular Cessna Citation Latitude, the region’s best-selling midsize jet. Textron will also present the Cessna Citation CJ4 Gen2, the largest light jet in the Citation family, and the Cessna Citation M2 Gen2, further showcasing the company’s comprehensive jet offerings.

Textron Aviation boasts a remarkable presence in the Asia Pacific region, accounting for over 70% of competitive turbine aircraft deliveries in 2023. This success is reflected in the region’s impressive fleet of nearly 400 Textron jets and over 1,000 Textron turboprops.

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Cessna Grand Caravan EX Amphibian Extends Reach in Southeast Asia with Delivery in Malaysia

On 17 February 2024, Textron Aviation announced the delivery of a Cessna Grand Caravan EX Amphibian to Malaysian property developer Ikhasas Sdn Bhd. Managed by local charter operator Systematic Aviation Services (SAS), this seaplane will connect Kuala Lumpur with a new waterfront resort on the Perhentian Islands, marking the country’s first amphibious aircraft operation in recent history.

Previously approved by the Civil Aviation Authority of Malaysia for domestic operations in 2024, this iconic aircraft will offer a unique travel experience by landing directly on the water near the resort, bypassing the need for airport infrastructure.

Designed and manufactured by Textron Aviation, the Cessna Grand Caravan EX boasts an impressive track record with over 3,000 deliveries across 100 countries and nearly 24 million flight hours accumulated worldwide. Known for its versatility and dependability, this turboprop serves various missions, including cargo services, humanitarian efforts, VIP transport, and passenger transport for airlines and charters. Its powerful engine delivers 867 horsepower and enables a remarkable climb rate of 1,275 feet per minute.

“Seaplanes will be the most convenient way to reach the Perhentian Islands. Currently, it takes a time-consuming 6-hour road journey followed by a one-hour ferry ride from the port in Kuala Besut. With our 11-seater aircraft, travelers will benefit from time savings as it will transport passengers from Kuala Lumpur to land directly in the waters near the beachside resort. At the same time, we preserve the islands pristine environment and natural forests which would otherwise be felled for airport construction.”

Tan Chee Kian, Ikhasas group managing director

We are honoured for Grand Caravan EX Amphibian to be selected. The versatility and excellent operating economics make it the perfect partner for Ikhasas to develop sustainable tourism. The comfortable cabin, large windows for sightseeing, and floats allowing it to take off and land anywhere are ideal for their missions.

Tony Jones, vice president, International Sales (Asia-Pacific)

The Cessna Grand Caravan EX Amphibian’s arrival opens up a new era of convenient and scenic travel in Malaysia. Passengers can now skip lengthy road and ferry journeys, enjoying a direct and breathtaking connection between Kuala Lumpur and the pristine Perhentian Islands.

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Photo credits: Textron Aviation