Page 8 - July 2015 Volume 9, Number 7

Current Avionics
Retrofit Options
for King Airs
by Mark Wilken
When talking about King Air avionics retrofits, it is important to understand the difference between integrated and non-integrated systems. An integrated avionics retrofit is a system that is operating off of all its components in a similar generation. These components are all made to work together as a group. This includes a new autopilot system.
A non-integrated avionics package is a system that has newer components working with older ones. Think of trying to hook up an old Atari with a new smart TV. You can probably find the right parts to make it work, but your system is only as good as the weakest link. The reason non-integrated systems exist is that it is very expensive to engineer and certify a new autopilot system and, depending on your mission and intended use for the aircraft, a fully integrated system upgrade may not make sense for you.
I often get asked by aircraft owners, “What is the best option for me?” I like to stress that they should do their research and reach out to experts that are indifferent to the avionics manufacturers and make sure that they are a highly reputable shop that works on a lot of King Airs. For instance, someone who does a lot of piston work might not have the best information and may pass along what they’re comfortable with and not what is best for the King Air customer. In addition, find someone who will be unbiased and will educate you on the pros and cons of each system. While a lot of these systems may look similar on the surface as they market the same types of features (synthetic vision, flat-panel displays, etc.), it is important to talk in-depth with your King Air service center representative to fully understand what you are buying. A reputable shop is going to educate you so you are truly knowledgeable about your purchase. Their end goal should be that they can call you five years later and there is no buyers’ remorse because you truly understood what you purchased.
6 • KING AIR MAGAZINE
Because of the amount of King Air model changes, it’s hard to offer a “one-size-fits-all” solution. For example, if you have a cockpit that has Collins Pro Line 21 avionics (2004 or later), your upgrade paths can be completely different than one that is built just one year earlier. That being said, let’s get into what the solutions from each avionics manufacturer are and to what models of King Air they apply.
BendixKing
BendixKing is currently working on certifying their AeroVue system. It is targeted toward King Air 200 and B200 models, and is similar to the Honeywell Apex which is currently installed in Pilatus PC-12 aircraft. The AeroVue system will be integrated, completely replacing your old avionics package including the autopilot. It will have synthetic vision, WAAS/LPV, three 12-inch LCD displays and ADS-B compliance. As the system is not currently certified, pricing and many other details are still unknown.
JULY 2015