Textron Aviation announced a Cooperation Agreement with Brazilian firm Aeromot Aeronaves and Motores S.A., planning to develop a jump and cargo drop door with in-air opening functionality for their Caravan series.
The Brazilian angle was highlighted in the announcement, given the number in operation there, and the single-engine turboprop has remained a mainstay of small cargo and passenger operations the world over. The partnership means that operators could eventually get an airborne-activated jump door for their planes, with the company’s blessing. The STC will be started off under the Brazilian National Civil Aviation Agency, but Cessna is clear they expect it to quickly trickle down through regulators the world over. Eventually, they’ll release the new door design as a turnkey factory option.
“Brazil is home to over 200 Cessna Caravans, from general aviation owners and commercial operators to the Brazilian Air Force and several State Police organizations,” said Bob Gibbs, vice president, Special Missions Sales, Textron Aviation. “This opportunity to work with the Aeromot engineering team to develop this option will benefit Cessna Caravan customers not only in Brazil but around the world.”
Currently, the Cessna Caravan can be had through their ‘Special Operations’ catalog, with a roll-up cabin door. That design can be opened in-flight too, accompanied by remote pilot closure of the door. That package comes along with coordinated drop zone notification lights, with a set of external steps and handrails to help jumpers load into the plane. Aeromot has been mum about their changes to the established solution so far, but having a retrofit-ready solution for existing aircraft is enough of a win for jump operators as it is.
FMI: www.txtav.com
