Elliott Aviation Receives STCs for EGPWS, TCAS in King Airs, Beechjets

Elliott Aviation (Booth 6118) is the first service center to obtain an STC to install AlliedSignal's Mark VII EGPWS in several models of the Raytheon Beech King Air and the Beechjet 400. The company expects to receive an STC for EGPWS in the Beechjet 400A and the Beech 1900 Airliner in coming weeks.

An FAA NPRM would call for installation of an FAA-approved terrain awareness and warning system (TAWS) in all turbine-powered, U.S.-registered airplanes type-certificated with six or more passenger seats. To date, only AlliedSignal's enhanced ground proximity warning system meets the FAA requirements for TAWS. The AlliedSignal system matches current aircraft position with a digital, worldwide terrain database to provide flightcrews with visual and aural warnings up to 60 seconds ahead of any potential terrain and obstacle conflict.

Elliott's multiple STC for EGPWS in the Beechjet 400 includes a special provision for the system's optional wind-shear detection function, as well as enhanced terrain audio and video display capabilities. The certification aircraft was a Dallas-based 1985 Beechjet 400. Elliot has since completed several EGPWS installations. The company also has received an STC to install Rockwell Collins' TCAS-94 traffic alert and collision avoidance systems in the Beechjet 400.

Elliott Aviation has meanwhile completed and delivered the first production Sound Management System to Raytheon Aircraft aboard a King Air 350. In March, Raytheon announced the introduction of Elliott Aviation's Sound Management System as standard equipment for cabin noise suppression on the King Air 350, beginning with 1998 aircraft models. Until the system is incorporated into the King Air assembly line in Wichita, all installations are being completed at Elliott Aviation facilities. The 78-pound system reduces the King Air 350's average inflight cabin sound level by more than 50%, to an average of just over 79 dBA, rivaling the sounds of a comparable jet.

By Mal Gormley