Pratt & Whitney Canada’s PW545D engine has achieved a significant milestone, having received type certification from Transport Canada Civil Aviation on May 9 2024. This certification marks a crucial step towards the engine’s entry into service, as it is set to power Textron Aviation’s new Cessna Citation Ascend business jet, announced in May 2023. Pratt & Whitney, a subsidiary of RTX, is responsible for this advanced engine’s development and production.
The PW545D engine introduces several technological advancements. It features an advanced mixer and improvements in the compressor and turbine sections, which contribute to lower fuel burn and reduced operating temperatures. Additionally, the engine is equipped with Full Authority Digital Engine Control (FADEC) technology, a feature common in many PW500 models. FADEC enables the Citation Ascend to incorporate new auto-throttle technology, simplifying engine operation, maximizing efficiency, and reducing pilot workload.