Textron Aviation’s profits surge on business jet boom

Textron Aviation accelerated deliveries of both business jets and commercial turboprops in 2021, driving the airframer to a $378 million profit. But sister company Bell’s 2021 profit slipped year-on-year, partly reflecting less revenue from military buyers. In reporting the results on 27 January, parent Textron also says subsidiary Cessna’s SkyCourier turboprop is on track for certificate by the end of June. “In aviation, we continue to see favourable market conditions, including improved aircraft utilisation, low pre-owned inventory levels and strong customer demand,” Textron chief executive Scott Donnelly says on 27 January. Textron Aviation delivered 292 commercial aircraft in 2021, including 167 Cessna jets, 54 Caravans and 71 King Airs, Textron says. Cessna and Beechcraft sit under Textron Aviation. That compares to 245 deliveries in 2020, among them 132 Cessna jets, 51 Caravans and 62 King Airs. Donnelly says demand for new business jets has been “very robust” from both individual and corporate buyers.<br/>