Cessna has selected Parker Aerospace to supply the flight control system for its large-cabin Model 850 Citation Columbus. The contract is estimated at $400 million over the life of the program.

The Irvine, Calif.-based company will design and manufacture the primary and secondary flight controls and will incorporate both fly-by-wire and hydraulic actuation, the company said. The fly-by-wire components will allow elimination of cable and pulley control systems, thereby simplifying equipment installation and reducing maintenance costs.

The system will also provide improved pilot handling, ride quality and aerodynamic stability, as well as improved envelope warning, protection functions and control redundancy.     

Parker Aerospace also supplies speed brake and flap actuators for the Cessna CJ4, as well as the wheel-and-brake system for the Model 162 SkyCatcher light sport aircraft. The company also supplies Cessna with various cabin temperature control systems and fuel and pneumatic components.