Less than two weeks after unveiling its newest model, Cessna Aircraft has announced a new name for the Turbo Skylane NXT -- which apparently was too close for comfort to another model, the Remos NXT two seater.
Cessna launched the jet-fuel-burning diesel 182 at EAA AirVenture 2012 in Oshkosh, Wisconsin, with much fanfare using the Turbo Skylane NXT name. That now changes to the Turbo Skylane JT-A – and, we’re assuming, it will be pronounced Skylane “Jet-A.”
Cessna said the naming faux pas was brought to its attention shortly after it made its announcement of the Turbo Skylane NXT at Oshkosh. The manufacturer said it had “not been aware” of the conflict beforehand. “Cessna both respects the trademark rights of others and desires to obtain registered trademark status on its name for this important new product,” the company said in a statement.
The Turbo Skylane JT-A will boast a max speed of 155 knots, high-speed range of 1,160 nautical miles and certified ceiling of 20,000 feet, all while burning 11 gallons of jet fuel per hour. The new model will be equipped with a 230-horsepower diesel engine from French manufacturer SMA Safran and carry a base price of $515,000 when hits the market next year.
Look for Robert Goyer’s pilot report on the Skylane JT-A in the upcoming October issue.
