Raisbeck Engineering has received Supplemental Type Certificate (STC) approval for its new drag reduction system, EPIC Caravan, for the Cessna Caravan 208B aircraft.
EPIC Caravan was designed to address the aerodynamic drag associated with Cessna Caravan 208Bs equipped with factory cargo pods. The 208B experiences a significant decrease in speed and an increase in fuel burn due to the cargo pod.
Raisbeck’s new drag reduction system, made up of a composite Forward Cargo Pod Fairing and metal Dual Aft Body Strakes, weighs 38 pounds. The system offers the option to fly 5+ knots faster or go farther on the same fuel load, according to company officials. In addition to the drag reduction, the Dual Aft Body Strakes provide significantly improved lateral stability, officials add.
Raisbeck’s engineering team has also been pursuing certification for Textron’s current production model, the Cessna Grand Caravan EX, with an STC expected later this year, company officials said.