New Diesel-Powered Cessna 172 Skyhawk Certified by EASA and FAA

By Douglas Royce, Senior Aerospace Analyst, Forecast International.

The European Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) and the U.S. Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) have certified a new version of the Cessna 172 Skyhawk powered by a diesel engine, the Turbo Skyhawk JT-A.  Deliveries to customers in Europe and the U.S. will begin soon. 

The Turbo Skyhawk JT-A is a factory option that includes an integrated powerplant, propeller and cockpit upgrade package that boosts the standard Skyhawk’s performance. Textron says that the switch to the Continental CD-155 engine reduces fuel burn by 25 percent and extends the aircraft’ range to 963 nautical miles, a 50 percent increase over the standard Skyhawk.  Maximum speed increases to 134 knots, and max climb rate to 767 feet per minute.  It also reduces takeoff distance to 1,320 feet and improves takeoff performance in hot and high conditions.

The 155-hp turbodiesel Continental CD-155 features direct fuel injection and a dual-channel Full Authority Digital Engine Control (FADEC) driven by a single power lever. The engine burns globally available Jet-A fuel, allowing owners to bypass the difficulty of finding avgas at facilities outside North America. Other improvements include Garmin’s G1000 NXi avionics system with wireless connectivity and an Angle-of-Attack display system.

Production of the four- to five-seat Skyhawk has averaged around 120 aircraft per year since the last recession.  Introduction of the new model will likely improve sales.  Flight schools will benefit from the diesel powerplant’s improved fuel efficiency, and, given the widespread availability of Jet-A fuel at air fields around the world, the new engine option will help sell the Skyhawk in export markets where avgas is difficult to find.

Please feel free to use this content with Forecast International and analyst attributions, along with a link to the article. Contact Ray Peterson at +1 (203) 426-0800 or via email at ray.peterson@forecast1.com for additional analysis.


The Forecast International Civil Aircraft service covers all facets of the fixed-wing commercial and private aviation industry. It includes more than 70 detailed reports, complete with production forecasts on individual civil aircraft families. Four Market Segment Analyses provide in-depth examination of the markets for Large Commercial Jet Transports, Regional Aircraft, Business Jets, and General Aviation/Utility Aircraft. Included in the reports are production forecasts, a Forecast Rationale detailing the basis for the forecast, the aircraft’s price range and technical specifications, a program history, and recent developments.Forecast FI Logo

 

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For 50 years, Forecast International intelligence reports have been the aerospace and defense industry standard for accurate research, analysis, and projections. Our experienced analysts compile, evaluate, and present accurate data for decision makers. FI's market research reports offer concise analysis of individual programs and identify market opportunities. Each report includes a program overview, detailed statistics, recent developments and a competitive analysis, culminating in production forecasts spanning 10 or 15 years. Let our market intelligence reports be a key part of reducing uncertainties and mastering your specific market and its growth potential. Find out more at www.forecastinternational.com

About Forecast International

For 50 years, Forecast International intelligence reports have been the aerospace and defense industry standard for accurate research, analysis, and projections. Our experienced analysts compile, evaluate, and present accurate data for decision makers. FI's market research reports offer concise analysis of individual programs and identify market opportunities. Each report includes a program overview, detailed statistics, recent developments and a competitive analysis, culminating in production forecasts spanning 10 or 15 years. Let our market intelligence reports be a key part of reducing uncertainties and mastering your specific market and its growth potential. Find out more at www.forecastinternational.com

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