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Back in the day, I could change out the windowpanes in a King Air in one to 11⁄2 hours per window, providing the King Air had the older style interior configuration. By this I mean that each window is surrounded by a separate reveal that looks like a flat frame around the window. If the interior configuration does not have these reveals, then all bets are off on labor projections.
If money is no object, consider switching from the polarizing windows all together. There are retrofit options out there with pleated shades, and so forth. But they come with a cost, and they have their share of drawbacks as well.
Aesthetics Versus Practicality
Modern aircraft interiors often have one-piece sidewalls. They give a sleek and seamless look which lends a feeling of spaciousness to a relatively small space. Unfortunately, to gain access to the windows for replacement, the one-piece sidewall has to come out, and this is difficult and time consuming. It is best done after all the seats have been removed.
Mechanics need access for inspections, which is something to think about if a new interior is in your future. The Phase 3 inspection checklist mainly consists of cabin items and requires removal of all the seats. Scheduling window replacement or other interior projects concurrent with a Phase 3 helps the shop to be more efficient.
The 2,500-cycle cabin inspection requires removal of the entire interior – headliner, sidewalls, seats, carpet – everything comes out. Here is another opportunity to schedule an interior project. Conversely, if your King Air is going in for an interior refresh or replace, you might consider having that cabin inspection done at the same time, even if you are 500 cycles early. From a maintenance perspective it makes a lot of sense.
For me, the King Air is a magnificent aircraft, both in performance and appearance. Enhance the look of your King Air by protecting your windows from burnout; and consider replacing burned out panes when the budget allows. KA
Dean Benedict is a certified A&P/IA with over 45 years of maintaining King Airs. He’s the founder and former owner of Honest Air Inc., a maintenance shop that specialized in Beech aircraft with an emphasis on King Airs. Currently, with BeechMedic LLC, Dean consults with King Air owners, operators and maintenance shops on all things pertaining to King Air maintenance. This includes troubleshooting, pre-buys
and maintenance management. He can be reached at dr.dean@ beechmedic.com or 702-524-4378.
FEBRUARY 2023
KING AIR MAGAZINE • 21