[Avionics Magazine 01-06-17] Textron Aviation has introduced the Garmin G1000 NXi integrated flight deck to its piston product line, thanks to FAA certification, and is set to offer it as a retrofit option for fielded Beechcraft King Air 200/300/350-series turboprop aircraft, the company said.
Beechcraft King Air with G1000 NXi avionics. Photo: Textron Aviation.
The Garmin G1000 NXi features wireless cockpit connectivity, enhanced situational awareness, visual approaches and map overlay on the horizontal situation indicator, among other items. Garmin describes it as a system that is faster, modernized and lighter. The integrated flight deck recently received an FAA supplemental type certificate for the King Air 200, with other models following closely behind. Connext wireless cockpit connectivity gives the Garmin G1000 NXi more capabilities, like Flight Stream 510 and SurfaceWatch. A three-degree glideslope offers enhanced guidance in visual flight conditions, and the flight deck is FAA- and EASA-compliant with ADS-B requirements.
Textron has employed a factory-direct piston training team to provide customers with a smooth transition into using the new avionics system. The piston product line includes the Cessna Skyhawk 172, Cessna Skylane 182, Cessna Turbo Stationair HD T206, Beechcraft Bonanza G36 and the Beechcraft Baron G58.