Called the Cessna Sport/Private Pilot Course under the Cessna Flight Training System, the new Web-based system will be available through Cessna Pilot Centers. Cessna expects to expand the program to include an instrument rating course in the future.

The new training program is a key component of Cessna’s effort to make flying more accessible and to re-energize pilot training. Another key component is the development of the company’s new light sport aircraft, the Model 162 SkyCatcher, which has just completed ASTM compliance requirements and is on display at the Cessna exhibit at AirVenture 2009.

“We are very excited about this unique flight training system, which will seamlessly integrate the sport pilot and private pilot certification processes and make learning to fly even easier and more fun than it already is,” said Julie Filucci, manager, Cessna Pilot Centers. “The major advantages of our proprietary system are that it’s Web-based for maximum customer flexibility and it’s fully customizable for maximum instructor flexibility. In the hands of our Cessna Pilot Center network, it will become the training standard of the future.”

Customers pursuing the sport certificate have access to all parts of the Cessna Sport/Private Pilot Course and can easily move into the private-pilot-only segments of the course when ready. The Web-based system keeps track of every aspect of their training and they can access training materials from any location where they have access to the Internet. And since it is Web-based, changes and updates can be made instantly, with no replacement materials to distribute.

“We want to give our customers exposure to all areas of the program, regardless of whether they pursue a sport or private pilot certificate, so that they can acquire a more complete education,” Filucci said. “While there are a lot of aircraft safety features and options available throughout the industry, Cessna believes the real key to flight safety is a well-trained pilot.”

The second innovation with the Cessna system is that an instructor can customize the program to meet the requirements of the local training environment while not compromising the integrity of the training system, Filucci said.

Cessna Pilot Centers are flight training affiliates that use Cessna’s proprietary training curriculum and Cessna aircraft. There are more than 280 in the United States and around the world, offering customers an array of services including flight training.

To follow Cessna on Twitter during Oshkosh, go to www.twitter.com/fly_cessna

About Cessna Aircraft Company
Based on unit sales, Cessna Aircraft Company is the world's largest manufacturer of general aviation airplanes. In 2008, Cessna delivered 1,301 aircraft, including 467 Citation business jets, and reported revenues of about $5.662 billion. Since the company was originally established in 1927, some 192,000 Cessna airplanes have been delivered around the world, including more than 5,700 Citations, making it the largest fleet of business jets in the world. More information about Cessna Aircraft Company is available at www.cessna.com.

About Textron Inc.
Textron Inc. is a multi-industry company that leverages its global network of aircraft, defense, industrial and finance businesses to provide customers with innovative solutions and services. Textron is known around the world for its powerful brands such as Bell Helicopter, Cessna Aircraft Company, Jacobsen, Kautex, Lycoming, E-Z-GO, Greenlee, and Textron Systems. More information is available at www.textron.com.