Hawker Beechcraft Introduces Synthetic Vision Retrofit

Hawker Beechcraft's Global Customer Support (GCS) unit announced a synthetic-vision upgrade program for all airplanes in the Hawker and Beechcraft families equipped with Rockwell Collins Pro Line 21. The upgrade requires the addition of a new LRU to the Pro Line 21 platform. The hardware provides the flight crew with a simulated 3D view of the outside environment, including the runway and surrounding terrain and obstacles. Since the image simulates the view in clear conditions, the system gives the pilot a more seamless transition from IMC to VFR conditions.

In addition to the synthetic-vision capability, the retrofit will provide Integrated Flight Information Systems, an Enhanced Vision System video window and wall-to-wall ADI displays. Hawker Beechcraft GCS expects to deliver the first Pro Line 21 upgrades late next year.

Pia Bergqvist joined FLYING in December 2010. A passionate aviator, Pia started flying in 1999 and quickly obtained her single- and multi-engine commercial, instrument and instructor ratings. After a decade of working in general aviation, Pia has accumulated almost 3,000 hours of flight time in nearly 40 different types of aircraft.

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