Textron Aviation's Beechcraft Denali single engine turboprop continues to surpass significant milestones as it begins the certification flight test phase following FAA Type Inspection Authorisation achieved earlier this year. Each major development has given the members of the flight test programme a better understanding of the aircraft's strength, capability and durability, and the clean-sheet aircraft recently completed the first on-aircraft certification ground and flight testing of the avionics systems.

Textron's fleet of three flight test aircraft has now completed nearly 2,000 flight test hours with more than 830 flights, and the programme continues toward anticipated FAA certification expected in 2025.

"The Denali's advanced avionics take full advantage of the latest technology to ease pilot workload," says Lannie O'Bannion, senior vice president, global sales and flight operations. "Commencing certification flight testing on the aircraft marks a significant milestone for the programme and we are excited to get this aircraft into the hands of our eager customers."

The Denali cockpit features the Garmin G3000 intuitive avionics suite, with high-resolution screens and touchscreen controllers. Other standard G3000 features include a 10-inch weather radar, Terrain Awareness Warning System (TAWS-B), and dual transponders with automatic dependent surveillance-broadcast (ADS-B) capabilities that are compliant with the latest air traffic control requirements.

An integrated Garmin autothrottle is a standard feature, which interfaces with the Automatic Flight Control System (AFCS) and Flight Management System (FMS) to provide easy speed control throughout all regimes of flight from takeoff to touchdown. Garmin Emergency Autoland system is also being implemented, and will be available as a standard feature at time of entry into service.

Engineered to achieve cruise speeds of 285 knots and full fuel payload of 1,100 pounds, the Denali is designed to have a range of 1,600nm at high-speed cruise with one pilot and four passengers, and will be able to fly from Los Angeles to Chicago, New York to Miami or London to Athens.

It is the first aircraft powered with GE Aerospace's Catalyst engine, a more efficient engine that burns less fuel than competitors in the same size class. Like the company's other aircraft, the Denali can also use sustainable aviation fuel. The FADEC-equipped, 1,300shp-rated turboprop engine eases pilot workload with its single-lever power and propeller control.

The aircraft is also equipped with McCauley's new 105 inch diameter composite, five-blade, constant speed propeller, which is full feathering with reversible pitch and ice protection.

The Beechcraft Denali's flat-floor cabin is designed to be the largest in its segment and offers the versatility to easily convert between passenger and cargo configurations. The cabin features a standard seating configuration of six individual reclining seats and offers a nine-place high density seating option. Passengers will also enjoy large cabin windows, a forward refreshment cabinet and an in-flight accessible baggage compartment. An optional externally serviceable belted lavatory in the rear of the cabin is also available.