Nextant Aerospace has partnered with CAE to provide a dedicated pilot training program for its 400XT remanufactured light business jet. The deal comes as Nextant records almost $100 million in sales since clinching US certification a year ago for the modernized Beechjet 400A/XP.
"By the end of this year, we anticipate delivery of 25 aircraft, and will enter next year with a sales backlog valued in excess of $175 million," says Nextant chief executive Kenneth Ricci. "The order book includes firm orders from six different countries, with the international markets accounting for 40% of our total sales," he adds. The aircraft is also poised to receive European certification for the Williams FJ44-3AP-powered jet.
Nextant 400XT training will take place at CAE's facility in Dallas, Texas, following US approval in November of the provider's Level D full flight simulator. "Nextant collaborated extensively with CAE to ensure that the simulator flawlessly emulates the 400XT's Rockwell Collins Pro Line 21 cockpit environment as well as the aircraft's in-flight capabilities and performance," says Nextant. "400XT training at CAE for two pilots is included in the purchase price of every aircraft, with an optional line maintenance familiarization course," it says.
Nextant has now completed its move into a new 125,000²ft remanufacturing facility in Cleveland, Ohio. The base has a large production hangar that can handle six aircraft lines simultaneously. A second hangar will be dedicated to aircraft delivery and completions while a third which will house the aircraft painting operation. "The facility more than doubles the company's space and will support an increased annual production rate of up to 48 aircraft," says Nextant.
The company is showcasing at NBAA, the 400XT's new raked winglets, which provide improved performance, both while climbing and during high-speed cruising at altitude. The winglets are scheduled for certification in the first quarter of 2013.
Source: Flight Daily News
