Cessna is developing a proprietary, interactive, 3D aircraft specification software system that provides potential customer with lifelike real-time visuals as well as cost and weight changes to the aircraft.

The system is expected to greatly simplify the configuration process, allowing the customer to see in real time how choices will look and interact with each other in the cabin. Avionics can be changed instantly and running totals are presented in real time.

"Digital, 3D systems for basic product specification applications are not new, but most of the current systems on the internet - particularly the auto spec tools - are really just digital brochures that are fairly static in what they can do for the customer," said Cynthia Halsey, vice president of interior design, engineering and development.

"The Cessna system will be 100 per cent real time and will provide all the information a customer needs to make an informed decision about outfitting an aircraft."

Cessna is working with 3D specialist Anark Corporation. It plans to launch the new system by the end of the year. The schedule is to offer it first through Cessna's customer specification centres in Wichita and in its new Farnborough office in the UK and then to offer portable applications.

"It is a very large project, and it is a major task to integrate all the things we believe need to be there, but we think the investment is worth it in the long run in terms of real value to the people who buy our aircraft," Halsey said.