GE Aviation’s Catalyst engine has completed over 2,450 hours of testing and is prepping for a first flight on its Beechcraft King Air flying test bed.
30 August 2021: Textron Aviation announced the successful completed initial ground engine runs on the prototype Beechcraft Denali single-engine turboprop powered by GE Aviation’s new advanced Catalyst engine. The ground engine runs took place at Textron Aviation’s west campus in Wichita, Kansas. This test run verified the functionality of the fuel system and engine, as well as the interface with the avionics and electrical systems.
Chris Hearne, senior vice president, Engineering said, “These successful engine runs are a significant step toward the upcoming inaugural flight for the Beechcraft Denali, and they are a testament to the determination and collaboration from both the Textron Aviation and GE Aviation teams. The Denali features a technologically advanced engine that burns less fuel. It has an intuitive avionics suite that eases pilot workload and boasts the most spacious cabin in its segment. We are excited to get this aircraft into the hands of our eager customers.”
GE Aviation’s Catalyst engine has completed over 2,450 hours of testing and is prepping for a first flight on its Beechcraft King Air flying test bed. The Catalyst engine is a more environmentally friendly engine that burns less fuel than older turboprop technologies. The engine can also use sustainable aviation fuel, which results in lower emissions. The 1,300 shaft horsepower (SHP)-rated turboprop engine eases pilot workload with its single-lever power and propeller control. The Full Authority Digital Engine Controlled (FADEC) engine provides trend monitoring, which allows for on-condition maintenance with no mid-life Hot Section Inspection required.
The Beechcraft Denali development program has achieved several important milestones in recent months. Earlier this summer, GE Aviation Catalyst engine was installed on the Beechcraft Denali prototype airframe and the aircraft was powered on for the first time. Two other Denali flight test articles are also in development. Three additional ground test articles will be used for the airframe static and fatigue tests, and for cabin interior development and testing. The company anticipates certification for the Denali in 2023.
The testing moves the clean-sheet design aircraft closer to its milestone first flight, which is anticipated by the end of the year. The Beechcraft Denali is designed and manufactured by Textron Aviation.
