Avcon Industries, a wholly owned subsidiary of Butler National Corporation, received FAA approval for a new Supplemental Type Certificate (STC) on March 30, 2026. The STC, numbered SA01975WI, authorizes the installation of a single camera or sensor port on the Cessna 208 airframe, adding to Avcon’s existing portfolio of STCs for dual ports, a lower‑fuselage radar pod, and a retractable lift system on the same platform.
The Cessna 208, commonly known as the Caravan, is a workhorse for special‑mission aircraft used in mapping, search‑and‑rescue, and reconnaissance. By offering a single‑port option, Avcon gives operators a more cost‑effective and flexible solution that can be installed on a single aircraft without the need for a second port. The new STC is expected to broaden Avcon’s market reach within the Caravan customer base and increase kit sales and installation work for Butler National’s aerospace products segment.
"We’ve seen strong demand from operators for both the single and dual port or hole provisions on the Cessna 208. These aircraft are used worldwide for special missions—from mapping and search‑and‑rescue to reconnaissance—and the addition of Avcon of the single camera port enhances operational flexibility and mission capability," said Marcus Abendroth, President of Avcon. "The addition complements our previous FAA approvals for the dual sensor ports, lower fuselage radar pod and the Avcon retractable lift for sensor installations for both the Cessna 208 and 208B. Avcon plans to add the single port option to the Cessna 208B in the near future." Abendroth added, "We value working with innovative customers who push their aircraft to achieve new capabilities and operational performance. This STC is another demonstration of our commitment to the Caravan market."
The approval supports Butler National’s strategy of leveraging its STC portfolio to generate recurring revenue streams through modifications and installations. By expanding its product line on a high‑volume platform, Avcon strengthens its competitive position in the business‑jet and special‑mission aircraft modification niche and positions the company to capture additional revenue from future upgrades and support services.
The single‑port STC is a regulatory milestone that enhances Avcon’s ability to meet growing demand for versatile, cost‑effective sensor solutions on the Cessna 208, reinforcing the company’s focus on delivering mission‑critical upgrades to a global customer base.
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