The Beechcraft Denali single-engine turboprop will soon be equipped with the innovative Garmin Emergency Autoland system. This revolutionary system, the first certified of its kind, allows the aircraft to land automatically in the event of pilot incapacitation, providing an additional layer of safety for pilots and passengers.
Upon activation of the Emergency Autoland system by a passenger, the system takes control of the aircraft, informs air traffic control of the emergency, and calculates a flight path to the most suitable airport or runway. It considers terrain and adverse weather conditions, initiating a stabilized approach before automatically landing and shutting down the engine.
The certification timeline for the Beechcraft Denali, expected in 2025, is planned to align with the certification of the new Catalyst engine developed by Avio Aero, a GE Aerospace company. The Denali will be the first aircraft powered by this more efficient engine.
Designed to achieve cruise speeds of 285 knots, with a full fuel payload of 1,100 pounds and a range of 1,600 nautical miles at high-speed cruise, the Beechcraft Denali can fly from Los Angeles to Chicago, New York to Miami, or London to Athens with one pilot and four passengers.
The Catalyst engine features a FADEC-equipped, 1,300 shaft horsepower (SHP)-rated turboprop engine that eases pilot workload with its single-lever power and propeller control. The aircraft is also capable of using sustainable aviation fuel.
Equipped with a 105-inch diameter composite, 5-blade, constant-speed propeller from McCauley, the Denali has full feathering with reversible pitch and ice protection. The cockpit includes a Garmin G3000 avionics suite, featuring high-resolution screens, touchscreen controllers, and an integrated Garmin autothrottle that interfaces with the Automatic Flight Control System (AFCS) and Flight Management System (FMS) for easy speed control throughout all phases of flight.
The Beechcraft Denali offers a flat-floor cabin that can be easily converted between passenger and cargo configurations. The standard seating configuration includes six individual reclining seats, with a nine-place high-density seating option available.
With over 1,300 flight hours logged, the Denali flight test certification program features three flight test articles, showcasing a thorough evaluation process. The Beechcraft Denali’s advanced engine, avionics, and comfortable cabin design are expected to make it a game changer in the single-engine, high-performance turboprop segment.
