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October 23, 2006
Textron Businesses Make Headlines at the 59th Annual National Business Aviation Association Show
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At this year's NBAA, Cessna introduced the Citation CJ4, an extension of the popular Citation line. The CJ4 will offer the strongest performance and payload balance in the Citation CJ series, is configurable for seven to eight passengers in the main cabin. |
In total, Cessna received 115 jet orders worth more than $1 billion and expects that these agreements will be finalized and enter backlog. Combined with pre-show agreements, the company has already booked over 160 orders for the fourth quarter. Bell booked 10 new aircraft orders and expects these agreements will be finalized.
Four Textron businesses were present at the show:
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Cessna Aircraft Company
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Bell Helicopter
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E-Z-GO (which provides transport vehicles that are utilized for moving passengers, hauling cargo or transporting luggage in the private, commercial and military sectors)
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Textron Financial Corporation (which provides aircraft financing)
“Results from this year’s NBAA show are nothing short of impressive,” said Lewis B. Campbell, Textron’s Chairman, President and CEO. “Not only did Textron businesses capture attention with significant news and product announcements, but order intake was notable. These types of results wouldn’t be possible without having a strong customer focus, which have earned both Cessna and Bell high customer service accolades in their respective categories in top industry surveys, including ProPilot Magazine.”
Two New Products and a Concept for Cessna
During the show, Cessna unveiled its newest business jet, the Citation CJ4, an extension of the popular Citation line. The CJ4 will offer the strongest performance and payload balance in the Citation CJ series, is configurable for seven to eight passengers in the main cabin.
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The most anticipated unveiling, however, was Cessna’s concept mockup of a large cabin business jet. |
The most anticipated unveiling, however, was Cessna’s concept mockup of a large cabin business jet. The company took the opportunity to gather feedback from customers as part of an overall assessment of the attractiveness and feasibility of developing a jet larger than its current offerings. “With the largest fleet of business jets and the most extensive support network worldwide, we think this would be a logical extension to our product line, but we will not make that decision until we hear from our existing and potential customers and carefully evaluate the business case,” said Jack Pelton, Chairman, President and CEO of Cessna.
Bell Helicopters Showcased
Bell Helicopter showed great success with aircraft orders across its commercial helicopter line, including the 429 and 430 models. The light twin Bell 429 flies farther with more payload than anything else in its class and features the largest open cabin, accommodating two litters and EMS personnel. The world-class Bell 430 seats eleven and offers an exceptional ride quality and speed afforded by an advanced composite main rotor design. The 430 is ideal in offshore, EMS, Search and Rescue and law enforcement missions.
Cessna Chairman Summarizes Textron’s Winning Attitude
At the conclusion of a Cessna Aircraft press conference during NBAA, a reporter from Aviation Week’s show daily publication asked Mr. Pelton, “Should we read anything into the fact that Cessna took their first flight of the Light Sport Aircraft this past Friday – Friday the 13th?” Without missing a beat Mr. Pelton replied, “Yes. It means that Cessna’s not afraid of anything.” A perfect quote that conveys not only Cessna’s determination and confidence in this ever-growing, dynamic industry, but the winning mindset of all Textron companies.
NBAA is an annual show. In 2007, the show will be held at the end of September in Atlanta.
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