Page 22 - Jan25

VALUE ADDED
Collins’ Pro Line Fusion Credit: Collins Aerospace
Collins Aerospace Upgrades King Air 200 & 300 Series Flight Decks
by MeLinda Schnyder
In December, Collins Aerospace announced a comprehensive avionics upgrade and modernization program for Beechcraft King Air aircraft and two of its most popular systems. Designed to enhance aircraft operability, safety and efficiency, the initiative introduces several new safety features to both avionics suites and makes it possible to convert King Air 200 and 300 aircraft from the Pro Line 21 system to the Pro Line Fusion flight deck.
According to Nathan Voight, vice president and general manager of Business and Regional Avionics for Collins Aerospace, the program includes:
= Comprehensive system upgrades for factory- installed Pro Line Fusion King Air 200 and 300 series aircraft. These aircraft can receive the latest Fusion software release, aligning with the newest production aircraft. This includes Collins’ MultiScan weather radar that provides real-time weather data and threat detection, giving pilots
a holistic view of weather conditions without the hassle of needing to manually adjust the radar.
This Fusion upgrade also includes improved communication, navigation and surveillance
=
=
capabilities to meet the latest standards, inclusive of FANS 1/A+ and ATN-B1. CPDLC datalink capabilities are also included, enabling reliable text-based messaging and satellite connectivity to ensure communication is possible in areas where ground-based systems may be unavailable.
Confidentiality is enhanced with the implementation of Privacy ICAO Address (PIA) for aircraft ADS-B anonymity, enhancing aircraft position anonymity.
Finally, the latest Pro Line Fusion software update supports various combinations of engines and propellers, most notably the Pratt & Whitney PT6A-52 engines and PT6A-67A Blackhawk engines.
Upgrading Pro Line 21-equipped King Air 200 and 300 series aircraft to Pro Line Fusion. This upgrade includes all the above plus Fusion’s enhanced user interface, intuitive controls and fully integrated 14-inch touchscreen displays.
Pro Line 21 modernization upgrades for King Air 200 and 300 series aircraft. This includes
20 • KING AIR MAGAZINE
JANUARY 2025