Textron makes headlines at aviation event

Textron Inc. reported on Thursday that its Cessna Aircraft and Bell Helicopter businesses have once again yielded strong customer orders and new business opportunities resulting from products announced and/or showcased at the annual National Business Aviation Association (NBAA) convention, held last week in Orlando, FL.

In total, Cessna received 52 Citation jet orders, worth more than $500 million and Bell received 35 helicopter orders, worth more than $100 million.

Cessna’s Citation orders include a $200 million, 20-aircraft deal with Vienna-based Jetalliance, to support its Eastern European expansion. Cessna also received 18 customer orders for its Caravan turboprop and single engine piston aircraft.

During the show, Cessna unveiled its newest aircraft, the Cessna Citation Encore+, a successor to the popular Encore. The Encore+ provides customers with a new integrated avionics suite, increased payload capabilities and efficiencies, and improved cabin lighting. In addition, for the first time at NBAA, Cessna displayed its newly-certified Citation CJ1+ and CJ2+ — both announced at last year’s show. The company also showcased its new entry-level light jet, the Citation Mustang, which is currently in flight testing with anticipated certification during the fourth quarter of next year.

Bell Helicopter shattered its previous NBAA sales records with aircraft orders across its commercial helicopter line — largely for its new 429 model, unveiled earlier this year, and for its popular 407 model.

“I am nothing short of thrilled with the results from this year’s NBAA show,” said Lewis B. Campbell, Textron’s chairman, president and CEO. “Not only did our businesses capture headlines this year with significant news and product announcements, but our order intake was extremely impressive.”

Textron Inc. is a $10 billion multi-industry company with more than 44,000 employees in 40 countries. The company leverages its global network of aircraft, industrial and finance businesses to provide customers with innovative solutions and services. More information is available at www.textron.com.