From humanitarian aid to delivery of the last kilometer for e-commerce, aircraft offers double capacity unique flexibility that can produce significant operational and cost benefits, which can attract interest from both civil and military organizations.
Disaster assistance is an important application for these aircraft, especially in medical or larger scale emergency reactions. In air ambulance configurations, some medical setups are designed for highly specialized life support systems, making it less adaptable to rapid conversion. Although certain aircraft, such as the King Air, can sometimes be used for rapid changes in the air ambulance, many people need a more permanent setup to accommodate critical equipment.
For a broader relief of disasters-as to evacuate patients during a hurricane-is the rapid change of the aircraft ideal. For example, if they evacuate hospitals, many patients may be stable, but it requires transport to safer locations, which quickly re -connects for the feasible of passenger movement.
The main advantage for aircraft operators with double capabilities is the ability to transport passengers on one leg of a trip and cargo on the return, or vice versa, which adapts seamlessly to the market demand. It adds a whole new dimension compared to a dedicated cargo ship or passenger aircraft.
Various offers
Textron Aviation, which uses the market, offers three important multi-rollers designed for flexibility in a variety of different environments: the Cessna Caravan, King Air and Cessna Skycourier, each model offers different configurations to passengers and freight requirements comply.
The caravan, launched in 1985, initially replaced single -car piston aircraft in robust conditions such as Arctic and jungle environments. Shortly after the launch, FedEx requested a cargo -specific model, which led to the ‘Super Cargomaster’.
In military logistics, the caravan is well suited for delivery of the last kilometer. Rather than relying on larger, less efficient aircraft such as the C-130, which can cost about US $ 10,000 per hour to operate, the caravan offers a cost-effective alternative at about $ 500 per hour. This approach is particularly beneficial if the timely delivery of smaller cargo tax is essential, bypassing the delays of a multi -starry route.
‘Unlike the dedicated predecessor of the cargo ship, the current model is easily convertible: it has standard windows and an air step door, allowing it to carry passengers and cargo. Seats can be removed in about 20-30 minutes, thanks to full-length seat tracks that also carry most of the cargo, ”highlighted Bob Gibbs, Textron Aviation’s Vice President of Special Missions sales.
“With a plywood floor or carpet cover for quick re-conviguration, operators can switch seamlessly between passengers and cargo setups. For example, we recently used a demo caravan with a PT6 engine gear at the back of the back, showing its versatility for cargo and staff transport. “
Similarly, the King Air offers full -length seat tracks and a substantial load door, especially in models such as the King Air 260 and King Air 360 with specific cargo configurations. In about 15-20 minutes, the King Air can pass from passenger to cargo use by removing seats, with optional flat floor to facilitate cargo load.
“This versatility is appealing to operators who need quick reconfiguration while the requirements for passengers or loading or loading,” he continued.
The Skycourier, the latest addition of Textron Aviation, gave significant interest, especially within military contexts. It has up to 6,000 pounds or 19 passengers in its civic configuration and offers even more passenger capacity in military environments.
Like the caravan, the Skycourier has a forward cargo barrier for secure loose load load. In addition, it offers a certified “Combi” version with nine passenger seats at the front, a cargo barrier in the middle of the ship and cargo space at the back, allowing operators to quickly adjust based on the requirements of the mission.
“These multi-rollers provide unparalleled adaptability, enabling effective and economic solutions for diverse missionary requirements on civil and defense sectors,” Gibbs added.
