Sierra Industries sets new delivery records for modified Citation aircraft
Completing several of the most active months in the company’s history, Sierra Industries delivered three major Citation modifications to eager customers in June 2012. These included another S550 model in Sierra’s fleet of Williams FJ44 powered Citations, the fourth installation of the recently STC’d Sierra/Garmin G501SP glass panel retrofit, and a Canadian Citation V fitted with the 36” Sierra cargo door modification.
The S550-based Sierra Super SII delivery marks aircraft number 59 in Sierra’s FJ44 re-engining program and the 12th aircraft to be retrofitted with Williams International FJ44-3A engines. The modification dramatically upgrades the Citation S550’s performance by re-powering the aircraft with Williams International’s FADEC-controlled 2820 lb. thrust FJ44-3A engines.
The Super SII modification provides substantial across-the-board performance improvement for the Citation SII – enhancing fuel efficiency and reducing emissions by as much as 27%, boosting cruise speeds by 30 to 40 knots, extending range to over 2,300 NM, and increasing maximum fuel payload. Dual Channel FADEC controls provide smooth, vibration-free flight for passengers and a reduced workload for the pilot.
June also marked the completion of our fourth G501SP “glass panel” retrofit for the Citation 501. Two more Citation aircraft are currently undergoing G501SP installation in Sierra’s Uvalde, Texas hangars, and remaining 2012 installation slots are filling up rapidly.
The three-screen G501SP incorporates Garmin’s G1000 avionics displays into an integrated flight management system utilizing the Citation SPZ500 autopilot. The system offers true 21st century functionality to pilots of legacy Citations at an affordable price. The G501SP package and options are available for installation at Sierra’s Uvalde, Texas facility and in kit form for installation at approved Garmin dealers. The system is applicable to all Cessna Citation 501 aircraft with either Pratt & Whitney JT15-D or Williams FJ44-2A engines.
Also completed in June was a Sierra Wide Door modification on a Citation 560 aircraft for a Canadian air ambulance operator. The Wide Door modification opens up access to the Citation cabin for medical transport, cargo, remote sensing and other specialized missions. The side-opening 36” door utilizes standard hinge and latch components for easy field maintenance. Applicable to Citation 500, 501SP, 550, 551 and 560 models, the door modification typically requires 10 to 12 weeks for completion.
The extended “down time” of a significant modification, repair or major inspection can be a challenge for owners and operators that depend on their aircraft for frequent travel. Sierra’s exclusive “Fly-Thru Maintenance” program can provide short-term, low-cost leasing of a comparable replacement aircraft during major modifications and other maintenance events, helping to minimize travel disruptions.
