New Generation Avionics Available for Pistons

Piston aircraft such as the venerable Beech Bonanza and Baron have been around for many years, but the two models still in production at Raytheon boast the first of a new generation of avionics and autopilots for piston-powered business aircraft.

The classic single-engine Bonanza on display at NBAA is the latest version of the aircraft first introduced in 1947 by Walter and Olive Ann Beech. Both the Bonanza and the later twin-engine Baron models feature new AlliedSignal/King Silver Crown full IFR avionics packages. Both also include as standard equipment the next-generation AlliedSignal/King KFC 225 all-digital autopilot.

The Bonanza has been updated this year with a balancing of its engine. "The balanced engine is a refinement which notably reduces cabin vibration from the reliable Teledyne Continental IO-550B and TSIO-520-UB engines used on the normally aspirated and turbocharged models of the Bonanza," said Steve Young, director of the piston aircraft business unit.

"The Bonanza continues to keep a strong hold on its position as the leader of high-performance single-engine business aircraft," Young said. "The Bonanza is sold out through the end of 1998 and well into 1999."

The Beech Baron continues to hold its position as leader in the piston-twin class of business aircraft with more than 6,000 units built. Production of the Baron is also sold out for the rest of the year and demand is strong well into the future, Young said.

"This business twin is legendary, but it is constantly improving as newer and better technologies are found and incorporated into the design," he said. "They have proved themselves year after year and will continue to do so because Raytheon Aircraft is committed to keeping this airplane on the cutting edge of piston-twin design and refinement."

By Jim Street