INDEPENDENCE, Kan. — Last week Cessna delivered the first production TTx aircraft to customers following a ceremony at the Cessna facility in Independence, Kan.
Formerly known as the Columbia 400, the TTx holds the distinction of being the world’s fastest commercially produced and certified fixed-gear single engine aircraft, according to Cessna officials.
“The customers will now find out what we know, that the TTx is an aircraft which will wow pilots with its performance, and surprise passengers with its comfort,” said Brian Steele, business leader for the Cessna TTx. “Everything about it is fun, fast and sporty, while at the same time intuitive and comfortable. The G2000 avionics are so advanced and at the same time familiar. The interior appointments add a refined touch of class to the overall TTx experience.”
One of the customers who accepted delivery is David Barnes, Chief Executive Officer of Watermark Retirement Communities. Barnes said he plans on using his TTx to travel between the 32 Watermark properties throughout the country. Representatives from Pacific Air Center (PAC) were on hand to assist with the event. PAC is a Cessna authorized sales center covering the southwest United States, with bases in Long Beach, Calif., and Scottsdale, Ariz.
Production line flow of the TTx was announced in April 2012 at SUN ’n FUN. The aircraft has a top speed of 235 ktas (270 miles per hour), an operating ceiling of 25,000 feet and an optional Flight into Known Icing (FIKI) system, enabling pilots to file flight plans allowing for varying weather conditions. The TTx is the first aircraft to be equipped with the Garmin G2000 avionics system, which features a glass cockpit with dual 14.1 inch high definition displays and touch screen controls.
Cessna provides additional training for pilots in the TTx, due to the additional horsepower and capabilities of the aircraft, officials noted.
For more information: Cessna.com