NAVAIR taps Textron for up to 17 UC-12W transport aircraft in sole-source deal

The U.S. Naval Air Systems Command (NAVAIR) has announced its intention to negotiate and award a sole-source contract to Textron Aviation to produce up to 17 UC-12W aircraft. The Navy announced the order in contract documents released Friday.

The multi-year agreement, with an anticipated start date in the first quarter of Fiscal Year 2027, will have a five-year ordering period and will primarily be performed at Textron's facilities in Wichita, Kan.

This significant contract, managed by NAVAIR's Tactical Airlift Program Office (PMA-207), encompasses not only the production of the aircraft but also non-recurring engineering, engineering change proposals, and initial spares necessary for sustaining the UC-12W fleet. The UC-12W is a commercial cargo/passenger transport aircraft, serving as a specialized variant of the widely recognized Beechcraft King Air 350.

The decision to award the contract on a sole-source basis stems from Textron Aviation's unique position as the original designer, developer, and manufacturer of the UC-12W aircraft. According to NAVAIR, Textron is the only entity possessing the requisite knowledge, experience, and technical data to fulfill the government's requirements.

Beechcraft King Air

The Beechcraft King Air series aircraft boasts a long and distinguished history in both civilian and military aviation worldwide. Since its introduction in the mid-1960s, the King Air has become one of the most successful turboprop aircraft ever produced, renowned for its versatility, reliability, and operational efficiency across a diverse range of missions, including transport, reconnaissance, and training.

Subcontracting Opportunities

While NAVAIR's announcement emphasizes the sole-source nature of this procurement, the agency has noted that interested parties are welcome to identify their interest and capability to respond to the requirement. However, the government does not currently intend to fund the development or qualification of other sources.

“Questions concerning subcontracting opportunities should be directed to Textron,” the Navy said in the announcement.

T'way Air unveils 'Weekend Getaway Deals' for Hong Kong-Seoul route

T'way Air, one of Korea's prominent low-cost carriers, is inviting travelers to take advantage of special savings on its Hong Kong–Incheon (Seoul) route through its "Weekend Getaway Deals." The promotional offer is available for booking until Sept 30 for travel periods extending through March 28, 2026.

The daily flight from Hong Kong (TW602) departs at 12:40 a.m. and arrives in Seoul at 5:30 a.m. local time. The return service (TW601) departs Incheon at 8:05 p.m., landing in Hong Kong at 11:15 p.m., offering a full day in Seoul before departure.

T'way Air utilizes its modern Airbus A330-200 and A330-300 aircraft on this route, designed to provide comfortable travel experience. Notably, the A330-300 aircraft are equipped with 12 Business Saver seats, featuring flat-bed recline, adjustable headrests, enhanced legroom, personal power outlets, and individual reading lights. The A330-200 also offers 18 Business Saver seats, designed with increased space and comfort for a more relaxed journey.

Headquartered in Daegu, South Korea, T'way Air has grown significantly since its inception in 2010, establishing itself as a key player in the affordable air travel sector. The carrier currently serves an expansive network of 60 destinations across East Asia, Southeast Asia, Central Asia, Oceania, and Europe. Its diverse fleet includes Boeing 737-800s, 737 MAX 8s, Airbus A330s, and Boeing 777-300ERs.

Travelers interested in these special savings are encouraged to book their flights before the September 30 deadline to secure fares for their future trips to Seoul.

Name Change

Daemyung Sono Group, which owns T’way Air, said on Sept. 8 that they have decided to rename the airline Trinity Airways. The new name, along with a redesign of aircraft exteriors and a brand overhaul, will be rolled out in the first half of 2026.