Continental, ASI to build F406

MOBILE, Ala. – Continental Motors is partnering with ASI Innovation of France to bring the 14-passenger Reims-Cessna F406 Caravan II back into production. The team acquired from insolvency the type certificate, inventory and manufacturing rights from Reims Aviation of France. The plane, first introduced in 1983, can fill multiple roles, including passenger, cargo and mixed uses. Under the original ownership, 85 planes were built. Once production resumes, buyers can equip an F406 with a Pratt & Whitney PT6 or Continental Motors piston engine. Continental Motors, a subsidiary of AVIC International Holding Co. of Beijing, China, has been providing aircraft engines for more than 80 years. In addition to Continental Motors in Mobile, the company also includes Continental Motors Beijing, Technify Motors, Germany, as well as Mattituck Services Inc. and Zulu Flight Training in Alabama. (Sources: Continental Motors, 03/25/14, Aircraft Owners and Pilots Association, 03/26/14, Flying, 03/27/14)