Nextant Aerospace introduced its fully conformed G90XT turboprop at NBAA 2016 in early November. The aircraft features the new H75 engine by GE in distinctive, redesigned nacelles; along with a forward looking, fully integrated Garmin G1000 cockpit and the world’s first electronically controlled, single lever control system in a turboprop.
With the power of the GE H75 engine, the G90XT delivers a 10 percent improvement in Specific Fuel Consumption (SFC) relative to the current production aircraft, while achieving a 23-knot speed advantage at altitude due to the thermodynamic potential of its core. Nextant said that additionally, the engine benefits from an advanced fuel delivery system which negates the requirement for a midlife hot section and allows for a 4,000-hour TBO; driving significantly lower maintenance costs. The company says its engineers were focused on providing a simplistic, single pilot operating platform with the flight deck. It begins with the single lever electronic control system, an oversized MFD, and the first in the series of aircraft to integrate digital engine and fuel system indication, allowing more accurate management by the pilot. The G90XT is also the first airframe in its series to feature an all new digitally controlled pressurization system linked directly into the FMS.
The redesigned cabin is available in three options and features multiple upgrades including a new acoustic package, environmental system and newly designed seat with full articulation.
The G90XT interior begins with an advanced composite interior shell that significantly increases cabin volume and dimensions in terms of both height and width. The interior also offers an entirely new acoustic and thermal insulation package that lowers ambient cabin noise at altitude by 50 percent. Nextant says its interior design team introduced an entirely new, fully articulating seat that showcases the bespoke upholstery the company is known for. It says the cabin also benefits from an all new LED lighting system featuring upwash, downwash, aisle and individual seat light controls. Finally, based on feedback from current operators, the company added an all new environmental system that is capable of exceptional ground cooling even in the most challenging environment.
The primary aircraft has already received FAA certification and Nextant has just commenced the final phase of test flight, which will incorporate the electronic engine and single lever power control system into the existing airframe certification. Nextant expects to achieve final certification in the first quarter of 2017 and will begin deliveries immediately following.
Leave a Reply