Textron Aviation Plans Hybrid Appearance at Sun 'n Fun

Textron Aviation is marking a return to live aviation events by attending the Sun 'n Fun Aerospace Expo April 13 to 18 but will rely on technology rather than people to showcase its piston, turboprop, and light jet products and inform customers about them.

The Beechcraft and Cessna airframer’s on-site presence at Florida’s Lakeland Linder Regional Airport will mark the first time it has attended a live aviation event since early 2020. At Sun 'n Fun, Textron Aviation will have on display a Cessna Caravan 208 single-engine turboprop and, using augmented reality, a “virtual aircraft display” consisting of a 182 Skylane, Bonanza G36, Baron G58, and Citation M2. Video displays, graphic boards, and mobile technologies will provide additional company and product information, the Wichita company said.

According to the company, the use of technology in lieu of people demonstrates “a commitment to preserving the health and safety of its employees and attendees.”