Fourteen years after Gulfstream ceased production of the Twin Commander line of twin-turboprop business aircraft, the 6- to 8-seaters are seeing a rebirth, thanks to the Twin Commander Aircraft Corp.'s (TCA) Grand Renaissance program.

Since the program began last year, TCA has delivered 25 Grand Renaissance conversion kits to factory-authorized service centers. Eighteen aircraft have been completed and are in service with owners and operators throughout the U.S., Latin America and Europe. Seven more conversions are in progress and six are slated to begin soon, according to TCA.

The conversion includes stripping the aircraft of its paint and interior, avionics, instruments and engines. The airframe is inspected for corrosion, fatigue and wear. All systems--including pressurization, environmental, hydraulic, fuel, electrical, flight control and landing gear--undergo inspection, then overhaul or replacement. Fuel cells, de-ice boots, hoses and control system cables and pulleys are replaced. Any outstanding SBs are performed. New windshields and cabin windows are installed, instruments are upgraded and bench-checked.

The AlliedSignal TPE331-5 engines are overhauled and the propellers replaced; or, customers can choose a -10T upgrade for increased climb and cruise performance, greater range and lower maintenance costs. Finally, the aircraft are painted and fitted with new interiors.