On Thursday, October 17th, Textron Aviation, the parent company of both Cessna Aircraft and Beechcraft, unveiled its new EvoX upgrade package. This upgrade is a specialized aftermarket upgrade package for existing fleet aircraft. The EvoX package includes upgrades to customers’ avionics packages, different connectivity solutions, interior changes, and even exterior packages. This upgrade will specialize for various Cessna Citation jets or the Beechcraft King Air.
New upgrade packages for existing aircraft
Both Beechcraft and Cessna customers can utilize the Textron Aviation network of service and part centers spread around the world. These facilities support maintenance and modifications offered by Textron Aviation. The EvoX upgrades are included in these modifications, meaning that the upgrade is available at its network of service centers.
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The Senior Vice President of Customer Support at Textron Aviation, Brian Rohloff, spoke about the EvoX upgrade. Rohloff stated,
“Textron Aviation’s new EvoX packages offer Cessna and Beechcraft customers complete aircraft revitalization options to maximize the value of their aircraft. We’ve meticulously curated the latest avionics, seamless connectivity options and exclusive bespoke interior and exterior designs to create an experience that feels like flying in an entirely new aircraft. With the launch of EvoX, we’re demonstrating our commitment to designing and delivering the best aviation experience for our customers.”
The EvoX upgrade is broken into several different packages. The advanced avionics upgrades help customers adopt the latest and greatest avionics package offered in their aircraft. A separate package allows customers the opportunity to upgrade their in-flight internet services, which ensures passengers have the fastest and most reliable connectivity services. Textron Aviation also now offers a new interior refurbishment upgrade, with customizable options including an EvoX branding scheme. The final EvoX upgrade is an exterior update. This includes various custom paint jobs, several of which include the exclusive EvoX branding icon.
Other recent Textron Aviation news
The EvoX announcement comes amidst ongoing contract negotiations with the International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers (IAM) District 70, Local Lodge 774. In late September, the union overwhelmingly voted to strike after receiving Textron Aviation’s latest contract proposal. Since September 23rd, members of the Local Lodge 774 union have been participating in an ongoing strike. Over 80% of the voting union members voted against the contract and to participate in the strike. Over 5,000 Textron Aviation employees are currently on strike.
Related
Textron Aviation Is Set To Continue Labor Union Contract Negotiations
The negotiations are set to continue on October 10.
Textron Aviation’s most recent official contract was proposed on Wednesday, September 18th. This proposal was highlighted by a 26% general wage increase over the lifetime of the contract. This increase is broken up by the following increases.
- 11% immediate raise once the contract is ratified
- 4% wage increase on September 21, 2025
- 5% wage increase on September 20, 2026
- 6% wage increase on September 19, 2027
This wage increase is on top of the 4% general wage increase that was awarded in 2022 following rapidly rising inflation.
However, many union members felt that the contract did not meet their needs. Some stated that the increase was not sufficient for inflation and the rising living costs that have occurred over the past several years. Recently, both the union and Textron Aviation met again for contract negotiations. The negotiations have restarted beginning earlier this month.