Pratt & Whitney Canada's PW545D engine is one step closer to entry into service with type certification granted on 9 May by Transport Canada Civil Aviation. In May 2023, Textron said its Cessna Citation Ascend business jet would be powered by twin PW545D engines; part of a substantial package of improvements extending the Citation 560XL aircraft.

The PW545D engines are the latest in the PW500 family, designed to deliver better fuel efficiency, increased thrust and longer time-on-wing. They use new materials and technology, including a more efficient high-pressure compressor, an enhanced single stage high-pressure turbine module and an upgraded exhaust mixer to reduce fuel consumption and noise.

"As the latest derivative in the PW500 engine family, we look forward to the Ascend's entry into service," says Cedric Gauthier, vice president, sales and marketing, general aviation, P&WC. "Certification was granted following 630 hours of engine testing, in addition to 230 hours of flight testing on the Ascend prototype test aircraft."

The new engine is also equipped with FADEC technology, which is included with many PW500 models. This enables the Citation Ascend to integrate new auto-throttle technology that simplifies engine operation, maximises efficiency and reduces pilot workload.