Textron Adds Second Beechcraft Denali to Test Program

The second test aircraft joins the first Denali prototype in the flight-test program that substantiates the segment-leading performance expectations of the Denali. The flight lasted 2 hours and 1 minute, reaching a max altitude of 15,500 feet with a max speed of 240 ktas. 

“This flight is another vitally important step for the Beechcraft Denali program as the aircraft will be used primarily for testing aircraft systems like avionics, cabin environmental control, and ice protection,” said Chris Hearne, senior vice president, engineering and programs. “The team has made great progress, accomplishing key goals in the flight test program, and the Denali team heads into the second half of 2022 with a great deal of momentum.”

According to the development team, the Beechcraft Denali is designed to achieve a cruise speed of 285 knots and full fuel payload of 1,100 pounds. The Denali is intended to have a range of 1,600 nm at high-speed cruise with one pilot and four passengers. 

The Denali is the first aircraft to be powered by GE’s Catalyst engine paired with a McCauley 105-inch diameter, composite five-blade, constant-speed propeller—full feathering, with reversible pitch and ice protection. The FADEC-equipped, 1,300 shaft hp (SHP) rated turboprop engine has a single-lever power and propeller control designed to reduce pilot workload.

The cockpit features the Garmin G3000 avionics suite with high-resolution and touchscreen controllers. An integrated Garmin autothrottle is now a standard feature, interfacing with the automatic flight control system (AFCS) and flight management system (FMS) designed to provide easy speed control throughout all phases of flight from takeoff to touchdown.

The Beechcraft Denali passenger cabin has a flat floor designed for versatility. It is easily convertible between passenger and cargo configurations. The cabin, which has large windows and a forward refreshment cabinet, can be configured for six to nine seats. The baggage compartment can be accessed in flight. There is also an option for an externally serviceable belted lavatory in the rear of the cabin.