In a surprise move, Continental Motors Inc., a subsidiary of AVIC International Holding Company of Beijing, China, announced today that in partnership with ASI Innovation of Reims, France that they have acquired the Type Certificate, inventory and manufacturing rights for the F406 twin engine turboprop, more commonly known as the Cessna 406 Caravan II. Developed as a turboprop version of the Cessna 404 Titan by Reims Aviation of Reims, France, a former subsidiary of Cessna, it appeared in 1983, proving popular as a freighter, particularly in more remote areas of the world, although it is not well known in the U.S. A total of 85 were built, the last reportedly in November 2013. A few 406s were imported to the U.S., but most remained in Europe.
This is a companion discussion topic for the original entry at https://www.avweb.com/recent-updates/business-military/continental-buys-rights-to-cessna-406-caravan-ii-updated