Say Hello To The "StratoHoover"

ANN APRIL 1st "SPECIAL" EDITION: "A respectful nod to Cessna's distinguished past." It was with these words Cessna Chairman, President, CEO, and Grand Poobah Jack Pelton announced the Wichita, KS-based planemaker's latest game-changer: the re-introduction of, and thorough modernization to, the classic Cessna 195.

"The new Model 195 'StratoHoover' -- we felt "Businessliner" was a bit staid -- combines the best features of old and new," Pelton said. "From the new Model 195's FADEC-controlled Jacobs radial engine, to its sturdy ribbed aluminum construction and fully cantilevered wing, and its neo-art-deco panel equipped with a full Garmin G1000 avionics suite, this aircraft will offer its owner impressive capabilities, and will make a statement whereever it lands."

The new cabin-class StratoHoover will be positioned as a step-up aircraft within the Cessna single-engine line, filling a hole between the C-206 Stationair and C208B Grand Caravan.

Pricing is expected to start at approximately $875,000, with options including XM/WX weather information, chromed stainless-steel trim and window cranks, TAWS, TCAS, and a full leather-and-teak interior trim package adding to that figure.

Pelton denied rumors the modifications seen in new StratoHoovers could make their way to owners of vintage C-195s, through possible STCs.

Cessna officials also declined to comment on the final production and assembly location for the new C-195. "We're looking at a number of potential venues, in order to keep the StratoHoover's price targets on-point," a Cessna spokesperson said.

FMI: www.cessna.com/stratohoover