Textron Aviation Inc. announced significant enhancements to its legendary Cessna Caravan and Cessna Grand Caravan EX utility turboprop aircraft. A brighter, modernized flight deck with new backlit panels, along with other amenities designed to elevate the pilot experience, are the direct result of continuous conversations with customers. The enhancements, which are expected to be available in 2025, will be standard on all new Caravan and Grand Caravan EX aircraft.
One of the most notable changes to both aircraft is the all-new black cockpit panels, creating a more contemporary appearance. The Caravan will also have Electroluminescent Lighting panels to match current Grand Caravan EX models, providing additional backlight for greater visibility in dimly lit environments.
Other enhancements to the Cessna Caravan and Grand Caravan EX include:
- A wider cockpit boarding ladder for easier access to the captain’s side of the aircraft
- Four circular, adjustable air nozzles to replace the previous two rectangular cockpit air vents
- Two USB-C charging ports to replace the 12V power adapter on the lower center pedestal of the cockpit
- Two USB-C charging ports on the right-hand subpanel for the copilot
- Standard power headset jacks (LEMO plugs) alongside the existing General Aviation plugs, offering operators greater flexibility in powering active noise-cancelling headsets
- Headset hooks underneath the cockpit glare shield.
Source: ‚Textron‚.