Textron Aviation has appointed Brian Rohloff as its new president and CEO, effective Aug. 31, 2026. He succeeds Ron Draper, who is retiring after eight years at the helm.
Textron Aviation
Pipistrel Voyager Debuts at Oshkosh 2026
Textron affiliate Pipistrel unveiled the new Voyager at EAA AirVenture Oshkosh 2026. This two-seat training aircraft features IFR capabilities, intentional spin certification, and Garmin avionics.
Cessna Piston Lineup Enhanced with Dual EIS and G1000 NXi Upgrades
Updates include the Garmin G1000 NXi System Release 7 avionics upgrade and the Lycoming dual electronic ignition system (dual EIS).
Civil Air Patrol expands fleet with 15 new Cessnas
The order includes seven 172s and eight 182s.
Peyton Manning to lead Special Olympics Airlift
The Special Olympics Airlift mobilizes hundreds of volunteer Cessna, Beechcraft, and Hawker pilots and aircraft owners to provide a once-in-a-lifetime VIP experience for Special Olympics athletes. The Airlift will transport hundreds of athletes and coaches across the country to and from the 2026 Special Olympics USA Games in Minnesota’s Twin Cities.
Celebrating 75 years of the Birddog
Textron Aviation recently welcomed more than 100 members of the International Birddog Association (IBDA) to celebrate the 75th anniversary of the iconic Cessna L-19/O-1 Birddog.
Dual electronic ignition introduced in Skyhawks
The dual Lycoming electronic ignition system is now standard on all new Cessna Skyhawk aircraft, replacing the previous dual magneto ignition system.
Textron Aviation receives Excellence in Manufacturing Training Award
The award celebrates manufacturers that demonstrate “exceptional dedication to integrating learning and development into their business processes, ensuring a skilled and adaptable workforce,” according to officials.
Textron Aviation named a top employer for veterans
Textron Aviation has been named one of the Top 25 Employers for Veterans for 2025 by Military.com’s Veteran Employment Project.