Textron Aviation has officially named its long-awaited new single-engine turboprop. The Cessna “Denali” was announced at EAA AirVenture this morning and a mockup is on display. First flight is anticipated in 2018 and letters of intent for the $4.5 million (introductory price), single-pilot-capable, six-to-nine-passenger aircraft are being accepted here at Oshkosh.

The Denali is expected to have a range of 1,600 nm, a maximum cruise speed of 285 knots, and a full fuel payload of 1,100 pounds. The aircraft features a flat-floor cabin, a 53-inch-by-59-inch rear cargo door, a digital pressurization system that maintains a 6,130-foot cabin to 31,000 feet, and an optional externally serviceable belted lavatory with pocket door enclosure in the aft of the cabin. The cabin design also incorporates large passenger windows, interior LED lighting, a refreshment cabinet and an in-flight-accessible baggage compartment. The interior is designed to be easily and quickly converted between passenger and cargo configurations. 

The aircraft will be powered by a new GE Aviation Fadec-equipped 1,240-shp engine with single-lever power and propeller control. GE announced the development of the engine late last year. It incorporates the modular architecture of the T700/CT7 turboshaft for better performance and lower operating costs and features: an all-titanium, 3D aero compressor design for light weight and efficient power generation; cooled turbine blades enabling higher thrust and fuel efficiency; and integrated and electronic propulsion control to enable the single-lever power control. GE will conduct a detail design review of the new engine next year and plans to flight test it in 2018. The new engine will have an initial TBO of 4,000 hours and be mated to McCauley's new 105-inch diameter, five-blade, constant-speed propeller, which is full feathering with reversible pitch and ice protection.

The Denali's cockpit will be equipped with the Garmin G3000 touchscreen avionics suite and will include high-resolution multifunction displays and split-screen capability. The G3000 flight deck will include weather radar, advanced terrain awareness warning system (TAWS), and automatic dependent surveillance-broadcast (ADS-B) capabilities.

The Denali will be offered with a five-year limited warranty covering airframe, engine, and avionics and will qualify for enrollment in Textron Aviation's ProAdvantage programs.

“The Denali will balance great handling characteristics with the enhanced capability of a high performance turboprop, making it a great step-up airplane for piston owners who are ready for more performance,” said Kriya Shortt, senior vice president for sales and marketing, Textron Aviation.