Raisbeck Engineering has received supplemental type certificate (STC) approval for its new EPIC Caravan drag reduction system for the Cessna Caravan 208B aircraft. This STC enables Caravan 208B fleet and owner-operators who are flying cargo pod-equipped aircraft to reduce drag and consequently increase cruise speeds and/or decrease fuel burn.

Raisbeck's new drag reduction system is comprised of a composite forward cargo pod fairing and metal dual aft body strakes and weighs only 38 lbs. The system offers operators the option to fly five or more knots faster or go farther on the same fuel load. In addition to the drag reduction, the dual aft body strakes provide significantly improved lateral stability.

“The Cessna Caravan aircraft is renowned for its rugged utility and adaptability to a wide variety of operations. EPIC Caravan will not only ease pilot workload, but also offer operators a more cost-effective, environmentally friendly way of flying,” says president Hal Chrisman. “The new system provides operators with the option to utilise faster cruise speeds or to reduce fuel flows with lower ITT. The STC also marks an important milestone for the company as we expand our product offerings in the business and general aviation market.”

In addition, Raisbeck's engineering team has been actively pursuing certification for Textron's current production model, the Cessna Grand Caravan EX. This programme is on track with certification expected later this year. Moreover, to meet a growing demand in the Brazilian market, the company has begun efforts to obtain ANAC approval for the new EPIC Caravan modification. This will be followed by EASA and other foreign certifications to serve the worldwide marketplace.