Cessna Skyhawk Soars With Enhanced Efficiency: Solid-State Dual Electronic Ignition System Introduced to the Industry-leading Piston

WICHITA, Kan.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--The industry-leading training aircraft, the Cessna Skyhawk, now features a dual electronic ignition system (dual EIS), enhancing maintenance, efficiency and overall operation of the single-engine, high-wing piston. The dual Lycoming electronic ignition system is now standard on all new Cessna Skyhawk aircraft.

The Cessna Skyhawk is designed and produced by Textron Aviation Inc., a Textron Inc. (NYSE: TXT) company.

The dual EIS replaces the previous dual magneto ignition system on the Skyhawk, incorporating advanced electronic components and reducing the number of internal moving parts to optimize operation. This solid-state electronic technology improves maintenance intervals, fuel efficiency and engine performance, ultimately reducing aircraft operating costs.

“The incorporation of the dual electronic ignition system demonstrates Textron Aviation’s continued commitment to our piston aircraft, including the legendary Cessna Skyhawk, by easing operations for customers” said Chris Crow, vice president, Piston & Utility Sales. “With 70 years of proven performance, the aircraft continues to play a vital role in supporting pilots across the globe.”

The Cessna Skyhawk is the best-selling aircraft in the world and the ultimate training aircraft. The addition of dual EIS comes during the 70^th anniversary year of the Cessna 172 Skyhawk, which first took flight in June 1955. Through the decades, the Skyhawk has earned a reputation for reliability, ease of use, and versatility, making it a favorite among flight schools and private owners alike.

About the Cessna Skyhawk

The Cessna Skyhawk is considered the aircraft of choice for pilot training, and it is the most popular aircraft in aviation history. Since the aircraft first took flight in 1955, more than 45,000 Cessna 172 aircraft have been delivered to customers in over 40 countries around the world — more than any other aircraft in the industry.

The Skyhawk features Garmin G1000 NXi avionics with wireless connectivity, a standard angle-of-attack display system and proven dependability. Its modern interior includes features such as power headset plugs at each seat, USB charging ports and upgraded seats for enhanced comfort. The aircraft also features a McCauley aluminum fixed pitch propeller and a Lycoming IO-360-L2A engine with 180 horsepower.

About Textron Aviation

We inspire the journey of flight. For more than 95 years, Textron Aviation Inc., a Textron Inc. company, has empowered our collective talent across the Beechcraft, Cessna and Hawker brands to design and deliver the best aviation experience for our customers. With a range that includes everything from business jets, turboprops, and high-performance pistons, to special mission, military trainer and defense products, Textron Aviation has the most versatile and comprehensive aviation product portfolio in the world and a workforce that has produced more than half of all general aviation aircraft worldwide. Customers in more than 170 countries rely on our legendary performance, reliability and versatility, along with our trusted global customer service network, for affordable and flexible flight. For more information, visit www.txtav.com| www.defense.txtav.com| www.scorpionjet.com.

About Textron Inc.

Textron Inc. is a multi-industry company that leverages its global network of aircraft, defense, industrial and finance businesses to provide customers with innovative solutions and services. Textron is known around the world for its powerful brands such as Bell, Cessna, Beechcraft, Pipistrel, Jacobsen, Kautex, Lycoming, E-Z-GO, and Textron Systems. For more information, visit: www.textron.com.

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