Photo: pitrixplanespotting/YouTube
While the world is looking at new types of aircraft that are said to one day replace all the existing commercial fleets, a handful of initiatives aim to resurrect older aircraft and adapt them for modern operations. One of these old-timers is a legendary military flying boat set to become a modern-day seaplane for passenger transportation.
Great news for warbird lovers – the World War II Catalina amphibious aircraft is making a glorious comeback as a new-generation twin turboprop with both civilian and military applications. Catalina Aircraft officially announced at EAA AirVenture, currently unfolding in Oshkosh, Wisconsin.
The Next Generation Amphibious Aircraft (NGAA) Catalina II will be introduced as a Variant Addition to the historic 28-5ACF Catalina Type Certificate.
Truly worthy of its heritage, the new turboprop won't be just another amphibious aircraft but the greatest one out there. According to Catalina Aircraft, this is set to become the most capable amphibian worldwide, with Western Certifications, boasting the best speed, the longest range, and the highest payload available.
The version for commercial passenger transportation will be able to carry 34 passengers or 12,000 lbs (5,440 kg) of cargo. Its newly-designed engine promises up to 20% better fuel efficiency compared to older turboprop engines.
In line with the current support for sustainable alternatives, the new Catalina II is designed to be compatible with SAF (sustainable aviation fuel). When running on SAF, it promises a range of up to 1,525 nautical miles (2,820 km).
Construction-wise, the modern version will incorporate the latest corrosion-resistant materials and processes. In addition to SAF, this civilian amphibious aircraft could also integrate other green options, depending on future customers' requests.
In addition to excellent performance, the Catalina II resembles its illustrious predecessor in terms of resilience and ruggedness. This flying boat will be able to operate smoothly not just from runways but also lakes, rivers, sand, grass, and dirt.
Military aircraft enthusiasts will surely appreciate one of Catalina II's perks – a distinctive feature of the WWII aircraft. Just like the original Catalina, the new amphibian will be equipped with two dinghies under its wings. They are meant to be used in remote locations with no beaches or docks, increasing Catalina II's flexibility and reach even more.
Although based on the original design of a WWII aircraft, the Catalina II is meant to become a better alternative to the latest small-category float-converted land planes and rotorcraft currently operating in areas with difficult or inexistent infrastructure. It will use the exceptional capabilities of an old-timer for modern-day operations.
The only bad news is that we'll have to wait a while before we can see the new Catalina II in action. The first deliveries are set to start in 2029. Pricing will also be announced at a later date.
The Next Generation Amphibious Aircraft (NGAA) Catalina II will be introduced as a Variant Addition to the historic 28-5ACF Catalina Type Certificate.
Truly worthy of its heritage, the new turboprop won't be just another amphibious aircraft but the greatest one out there. According to Catalina Aircraft, this is set to become the most capable amphibian worldwide, with Western Certifications, boasting the best speed, the longest range, and the highest payload available.
The version for commercial passenger transportation will be able to carry 34 passengers or 12,000 lbs (5,440 kg) of cargo. Its newly-designed engine promises up to 20% better fuel efficiency compared to older turboprop engines.
In line with the current support for sustainable alternatives, the new Catalina II is designed to be compatible with SAF (sustainable aviation fuel). When running on SAF, it promises a range of up to 1,525 nautical miles (2,820 km).
Construction-wise, the modern version will incorporate the latest corrosion-resistant materials and processes. In addition to SAF, this civilian amphibious aircraft could also integrate other green options, depending on future customers' requests.
In addition to excellent performance, the Catalina II resembles its illustrious predecessor in terms of resilience and ruggedness. This flying boat will be able to operate smoothly not just from runways but also lakes, rivers, sand, grass, and dirt.
Military aircraft enthusiasts will surely appreciate one of Catalina II's perks – a distinctive feature of the WWII aircraft. Just like the original Catalina, the new amphibian will be equipped with two dinghies under its wings. They are meant to be used in remote locations with no beaches or docks, increasing Catalina II's flexibility and reach even more.
Although based on the original design of a WWII aircraft, the Catalina II is meant to become a better alternative to the latest small-category float-converted land planes and rotorcraft currently operating in areas with difficult or inexistent infrastructure. It will use the exceptional capabilities of an old-timer for modern-day operations.
The only bad news is that we'll have to wait a while before we can see the new Catalina II in action. The first deliveries are set to start in 2029. Pricing will also be announced at a later date.
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