Sierra Super II modification planned for multi-role use by Latin American government

In cooperation with a south-of-the-border Citation service center, representatives of the sun-soaked land of margaritas have chosen a Sierra Super II upgrade to update and enhance their multi-mission Citation 550. The aircraft initially came to Sierra for a Universal 890R three-tube display upgrade, bringing the classic cockpit up to modern avionics standards. While here for the avionics upgrade the flight crew was exposed to Sierra's Williams engine upgrades. Excited, they returned home with the news and were soon scheduled for a Super II engine upgrade. With its new Universal avionics, FMS with Multi-Mission software for autopilot-coupled search patterns and increased engine efficiency and operating range, the aircraft gains dramatically extended capability for search and rescue missions. The aircraft will also utilize a new Flight Instrumentation System for testing and certification of ground-based radio navigation transmitters.

Sierra offers $125,000 rebate on new Williams FJ44-2A engines

Sierra Industries' Chief Marketing Officer Gary Buchanan has announced a $125,000 factory rebate for Summer 2009. This rebate is available for Citation 500/501 upgrades to Williams FJ44-2A engines installed at Sierra's production facilities in Uvalde, Texas.
"We have seen our customers impacted by the economic conditions that have an effect on their business." Gary went on to say, "Everyone is controlling expenses and Sierra is no different. Fortunately, we continue to improve our process and find ways to exceed our customer's expectiations. With our customers in mind, we are offering a one-time factory rebate on a set of brand new Williams FJ44-2A engines."
Gary continued, "This is our way of saying 'thank you' to the Citation owner. With 54 engine retrofits under our belts, we have developed an exclusive club of high-performance Citation aircraft. If you ask any or all of the owners, they will testify that these are spectacular animals."
The rebate program gives an aircraft owner the opportunity for either a Stallion or Eagle II modification to any 500/501 series Citation. The factory rebate is in addition to Sierra's normal trade-in allowance for the original JT15D-1A or -1B engines. For example, a typical Stallion upgrade would look like this:

With the exceptional performance and increased value of a modified Citation, this program makes sense even if you don't currently own a 500/501 aircraft. Today's pre-owned aircraft market makes it possible to acquire an airframe, install Sierra's upgrades and end up with a full-featured Stallion or Eagle II for far less than the cost of smaller and less capable VLJ's. For more details on operational savings, accelerated depreciation, and financing options, visit www.sijet.com. or call 1-888-835-9377.

The attached flyer is from Sierra Industries. For additional information click the link below.

IS YOUR CITATION MAINTENANCE TRACKING GOING OFF TRACK?

Nearly every Citation owner has heard that CESCOM maintenance tracking services has now been sold to a third-party company. Even if they continue to use the original name, your vital aircraft maintenance tracking will no longer be handled by an experienced Citation-specific organization. This can be a serious problem - or an opportunity.

While these third-party firms manage general maintenance tracking for hundreds of aircraft models, they just don't have the Citation-specific experience that Sierra Industries offers. Outside of Cessna itself, nobody has greater experience with the Citation than Sierra Industries. For more than 25 years, we've dedicated ourselves to making the Citation the best it can be. In that time, we've serviced more than half the worldwide Citation I and II fleet in our hangars at one time or another.

While servicing all those Citations, we became plenty frustrated with the slow service and high prices of the "default" maintenance tracking services. So more than a decade ago, we decided to build on our extensive Citation experience and create our own maintenance tracking program - and we've been refining it ever since. "SierraCOM" now handles tracking for hundreds of aircraft and boasts substantial improvements over the competition. Improvements that offer you speed, simplicity, and savings.

SierraCOM offers the Citation owner real-time online access, automatic email updates and more - all for about half the price of traditional tracking programs. With faster response, fleet discounts and available CD or paper reports, SierraCOM provides all the essentials without irrelevant and costly add-ons. When you include our standard features that others charge extra for, the difference is even clearer.

We're so sure that SierraCom is the Citation owner's best choice, that we'll make this special offer: Simply sign up for a three year SierraCom program and we'll convert your existing records and give you the first year of service absolutely FREE. That's 3 full years of focused Citation maintenance tracking for just $2,100 - compared to well over $5,000 with other services. You can find more details and try our free online demo at http://www.sijet.com/sierraCom.aspx.

Don't let your existing maintenance program simply roll-over to a new provider without exploring your options. Your aircraft, your safety and your time are far too important for that. Of course, saving yourself a few thousand dollars in the process is worth considering, too. Visit our website or call 1-888-835-9377 today to talk to an experienced Citation professional about SierraCom.

Sincerely,

Mark Huffstutler
Founder and Chief Executive Officer
Sierra Industries Ltd.

Jet Makes Emergency Landing at Palm Springs Airport

A Cessna Citation business jet headed to Canada with six people aboard landed safely at Palm Springs International Airport after some smoke was detected in the cabin, a Federal Aviation Administration spokesman said Tuesday.

The plane, registered in Canada, departed from Palm Springs International Airport for Winnipeg, Manitoba, at 10:55 a.m., but the pilot radioed back to report smoke in the cockpit, FAA spokesman Ian Gregor said.

The plane circled around the Thermal area to burn off some fuel before the emergency landing.

"Generally when the plane is lighter it puts less strain on the landing gear," Gregor said.

He said it was later learned that the smoke was only in the cabin, but the cause of the smoke was under investigation.

http://www.nbclosangeles.com/news/local/Je...gs-Airport.html

Suits Against Cessna Dismissed, Deferred To Italian Courts

Cessna Willing To Submit To Italian Jurisdiction

A Florida federal judge's dismissal of lawsuits filed by the families of 69 people lost in a 2001 runway incursion in Italy was upheld last week by a federal appeals court, which ruled the case was better suited to be decided by Italian courts.

On a foggy morning in October, 2001, a Cessna Aircraft Company jet and a Scandinavian Airlines System airliner collided at Milan's Linate airport, killing 118 people. Lawsuits brought against Cessna by relatives of 69 persons lost in the accident were dismissed by the Miami judge, who ruled that US courts weren't the proper forum to hear the case.

The Associated Press reports that the plaintiffs included 21 Swedes, 19 Italians, 19 Danes, four Finns, three Norwegians, a Romanian and a Briton, suing under bilateral treaties between their respective countries and the US.

A panel of three judges of the 11th US Circuit Court of Appeals agreed with the previous ruling last Friday, basing its decision on the availability of a more suitable forum to try the case in Italy, where the incident happened. Also cited was the greater availability of evidence and witnesses in Italy, and Cessna's willingness to submit to Italian jurisdiction.

The panel did not address the claims of the lawsuits, which maintained that Cessna was at fault for failing to adequately train its company pilots for low-visibility operations. The Cessna pilots were conducting a demonstration flight for a customer when the collision occurred. Contributing to the tragedy was an inoperative radar system at the airport.

Lawsuits were brought against eight other persons involved in the incident in 2004 and 2005 in Italy. The accused were convicted on charges that included manslaughter and negligence, and sentenced to prison terms of up to eight years.

FMI: www.ca11.uscourts.gov
aero-news.net

Cessna 550 Citation II Runway Excursion, Gear Collapse (SLC, UT)

Date: 29-MAR-2009

Time: 2230 UTC

Type: Cessna 550 Citation II

Operator: Fritzi Jet LLC

Registration: N44FR

C/n / msn: 550-0334

Fatalities: Fatalities: 0 / Occupants: 4

Airplane damage: Substantial

Location: Salt Lake City International Airport, UT (SLC) - United States of America

Phase: Landing

Nature:

Departure airport: Great Bend Airport, KS (GBD)

Destination airport: Salt Lake City International Airport, UT (SLC)

Narrative:

Aircraft on landing, veered off the runway, struck runway lights, and the right main gear collapsed, Salt Lake City, UT.



Sources:

FAA

(aviation-safety.net)

This is from AOPA,James at Sierra Industries and I feel that this would be good information for our Forum members.

Tax incentives good for aircraft owners, buyers

By AOPA ePublishing staff

If you’re buying or updating an airplane used in business, the stimulus measure signed by President Obama last month includes good news for you. The measure, officially called the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009, extends the special 2008 tax incentives for aircraft purchases used in a business or leasing situation. And the incentives are retroactive to Jan. 1, so that any qualifying 2009 purchase and delivery could be covered.

If you buy a brand new aircraft costing more than $200,000, you may elect to take 50 percent bonus depreciation, in addition to the standard MACRS cost recovery. The bonus depreciation also may be available for improvements such as a new engine or new avionics in an aircraft you already own.

Eligible business taxpayers may take a 100 percent first-year deduction of up to $250,000 on new or used aircraft purchases or capital improvements costing up to $800,000, with a dollar-for-dollar reduction in the deduction between $800,000 and $1,050,000 of cost.

In addition, the measure extends net operating loss (NOL) carry-back provisions for small businesses from two years to five years for any taxable year ending during 2008 or 2009.

Beneficiaries of these incentives could include small businesses and corporate owners, aircraft lessors, flight schools, charter companies, cargo operators, banner tow operators, aerial sightseeing businesses, agricultural operators, natural resources contract operators, aerial photography operators, and traffic reporting companies.

For more information about these and other tax issues, see AOPA’s Pilot’s Guide to Taxes.

As always, you are urged to contact your tax advisor for answers specific to your tax situation. If you need help finding a tax professional with aviation experience in your area, call AOPA's Pilot Information Center at 800/USA-AOPA (872-2672). AOPA is not authorized to provide tax advice.

Changing the Maintenance Paradigm: Introducing Sierra's "Fly-Thru" Program

We're excited to announce a new program that takes aircraft maintenance to a higher level. Modeled after the type of service you expect from premium automotive dealers, this new program can provide a free loaner aircraft during maintenance events.

While your aircraft is in our shop for inspections, repairs, or other service, Sierra's "Fly-Thru" program supplies you with a comparable aircraft - perhaps even one of our re-engined FJ44 models - to keep you on the move while we service your own plane. This program is available for Phase inspections and other significant maintenance events performed at our Uvalde, Texas facilities.

We know maintenance 'down time' can be inconvenient and frustrating. Let us help you stay in the air during your next inspection. Of course, after flying a Stallion or Super II for a little while, you might not want to give it back. We'd be glad to discuss that, too.

First European Super II Delivery Completed

Our fourth Super II has arrived in its new home in France, destined for duty as a state-of-the-art air ambulance platform. Featuring Sierra's XR extended-range fuel cell and 36" cargo door modifications, as well as a dual-stretcher LifePort interior, this Citation 550-based aircraft is our most ambitious Super II project to date. Combining superb range (over 2,100 NM!) with remarkable climb and cruise speed abilities, this aircraft is a natural for high-speed access to remote locations.

For more information on Sierra's Super II modification, click the link below.

Extended-Range Fuel Tank Program Launched for Citation S550

Sierra's exclusive "XR" extended-range fuel cells have become an essential modification for operators who need ultimate range capability for their Citation I or II. With increasing requests for a Citation S-II version, we've launched a program to certify this modification for the S550 model. Adding 120 gallons of fuel capacity, the XR tank can extend flying time by more than a hour, adding as much as 400 NM range. An ideal upgrade for Sierra's FJ44-powered Super S-II model, the XR modification will extend maximum range to as much as 3000 miles! For more details click the link below and go to Sierra Industries eNews, dated March 2009.

100 engines and counting: Sierra Industries modifies 50th FJ44 powered Citation for NM-based medical professional

UVALDE, TX - February 17, 2009 - Eagerly anticipated by new owner Dr. Jack Vondrak, his new Sierra Stallion SP upgrade marks Sierra's 50th aircraft and 100th engine delivery since the original FJ44 Eagle II STC was awarded to Sierra Industries in 2002.

"With multiple clinics in several widely separated southwestern cities, my practice demands fast, reliable long-range air travel. The amazing performance of the FJ44-powered Citation makes it possible to visit clinics in 3 or 4 different cities - even in different states - all in a single day! I love the Stallion's increased speed and range, and the reduced fuel burn is icing on the cake!" said Dr. Vondrak with a grin. "Higher performance, reduced maintenance and lower operating cost - for me, it's a no-brainer."

The Sierra Stallion modification adapts the Williams International FJ44-2A engine to the Citation 500/501SP airframe, dramatically enhancing overall performance and providing a cost-effective alternative to a brand new aircraft. This 2,300 lb. thrust engine provides numerous performance improvements, including a 25% reduction in fuel consumption, a 50 knot increase in maximum cruise speed, and a range increase of more than 250 nautical miles. Featuring modern digital engine controls and full-time synching, the FJ44-powered aircraft is easier than ever to fly - while substantially reduced noise and vibration reduce pilot fatigue and airport noise pollution.

Sierra Industries and Williams International have worked together for more than a decade, beginning with the development of Sierra's Citation retrofit program in the late 1990's. Since the introduction of the Eagle II and Stallion programs, Sierra has established itself as an industry-leading provider of FJ44-powered Citation aircraft modifications.

Williams' high-performance FJ44 turbofan engines are used on more than 20 different business jet designs. Williams' top-rated Total Assurance Program is available to all engine owners, whether their airplane is new or re-engined.
Sierra Industries currently offers 4 different models of FJ44-powered aircraft. Sierra has several FJ44-powered aircraft in current production at its facilities in Uvalde, Texas, with an order book stretching well into 2009.

This is from Curt Lewis "Flight Safety Information" dated 2/11/2009.

Report: Textron Ponders Sale Of Cessna, Bell

Financial Shakeup Comes As Company Must Raise $1 Billion

Faced with a global economic crisis that shows no signs of ebbing, this week Textron released two executives formerly responsible for the company's finances... and its CEO hinted at the possible sale of one of Textron's aerospace subsidiaries.

Textron announced Monday that Chief Financial Officer Ted French and Buell Jay Carter, Chief Operating Officer of Textron Financial, were shown the door. Forbes reports Textron SVP Richard Yates will serve as acting CFO in French's place, while Textron Financial -- which has seen massive losses tied to the current recession -- will report directly to Textron President Scott C. Donnelly.

"Under Scott's and Warren's leadership, I am confident we will successfully execute the strategy we've put in place for Textron Financial at a more rapid pace," Chairman Lewis B. Campbell said.

It's not difficult to see why Textron Financial is ailing. In addition to providing loans on such high-dollar items as Cessna business jets, the financial department also has funds tied up in golf courses and vacation resorts. Those aren't the kinds of assets to have in today's economy... and Textron Financial is offloading those properties as fast as it can.

Textron previously announced in December it would focus on its manufacturing operations -- in addition to Cessna, Textron also owns Bell Helicopter, and entities such as E-Z-GO golf carts -- leaving the financial aspects to other entities. While that may be a sound plan in the long run, in the short term investors are reportedly frustrated by plummeting sales, due to the lack of available credit for potential buyers.

The Fort Worth Star-Telegram reports that uneasiness may lead Textron to attempt to sell off one of its two aerospace companies. Speaking at a Barclays Capital conference with investors Tuesday, Textron CEO Lewis Campbell said the company must increase liquidity by at least $1 billion in the first half of 2009.

Selling off Bell or Cessna would be one way towards attaining that goal... and while it's hard to say for certain which company might be put on the sale block, it appears Bell would be the more enticing entity for potential buyers.

While both companies have seen commercial sales plunge over the past several months, and have laid off workers, Bell still has a number of military orders to fulfill, that are less susceptible to economic trends.

FMI: www.textron.com

aero-news.net

***************

The following is priliminary information details to follow as they become available.

Cessna 650 Citation III Accident (Italy)

Status: Preliminary - official

Date: 07 FEB 2009

Time: 06:30

Type: Cessna 650 Citation III

Operator: Air One Executive

Registration: I-FEEV

C/n / msn: 650-0105

First flight:

Crew: Fatalities: 2 / Occupants: 2

Passengers: Fatalities: 0 / Occupants: 0

Total: Fatalities: 2 / Occupants: 2

Airplane damage: Written off

Airplane fate: Written off (damaged beyond repair)

Location: Trigoria (Italy)

Phase: En route (ENR)

Nature: Ambulance

Departure airport: Roma-Ciampino Airport (CIA/LIRA), Italy

Destination airport: Bologna Airport (BLQ/LIPE), Italy

Narrative:

The Cessna Citation struck the ground at high speed.



Weather about the time of the accident (05:30 Z) was reported as:

LIRA 070515Z 14018KT 9999 -RA FEW018 SCT030 BKN070 13/10 Q0992=

(at 06:15 local wind 140 degrees at 18kts, light rain, few clouds 1,800 ft., scattered clouds 3,000 ft., broken clouds 7,000 ft., temperature 13°C, dew point 10°C, 992 mb)

LIRA 070545Z 16018KT 8000 -RA FEW014 SCT025 BKN070 13/11 Q0992=

(at 06:15 local wind 160 degrees at 18kts, light rain, few clouds 1,400 ft., scattered clouds 2,500 ft., broken clouds 7,000 ft., temperature 13°C, dew point 11°C, 992 mb)

(aviation-safety.net)

***************

I got it from a very relaiable source today that Cessna is closing the Toledo Service Center by March 31, 2009. In addition to closing the service center there are going to be an estimated 2000 layoff through out the network and factory.