Textron Aviation has unveiled its new single engine turboprop as the Cessna Denali, one year after announcing the concept. Named after the tallest mountain peak in North America, it is designed to be rugged yet refined. Textron is targeting a first flight in 2018 and letters of intent are being accepted.

“The Denali will balance great handling characteristics with the enhanced capability of a high performance turboprop, making it a great step-up aircraft for piston owners who are ready for more performance,” says VP of sales and marketing Kriya Shortt.

The aircraft is expected to fly at 285 kts and have a full fuel payload of nearly 500 kg, giving it a range of 1,600 nm at high speed cruise with one pilot and four passengers. It will be able to fly non-stop from London to Moscow.

The Denali will be powered by GE's advanced turboprop engine and McCauley's 105 inch diameter composite, five-blade, constant speed propeller with reversible pitch and ice protection. Garmin G3000 avionics will also be installed, and the aircraft will have a flat floor cabin and a 53 by 59 inch cargo door.

Able to accommodate up to nine passengers in high density seating configuration, the Denali will have a cabin altitude of 6,130 ft and a ceiling of 31,000 ft.