System Compatible To Varying Degrees With Entegra, Garmin Avionics

Avionics maker Avidyne announced Thursday it has received Supplemental Type Certificate (STC) approval from the Federal Aviation Administration for the installation of the TWX670 Tactical Lightning Detection System in the Cessna (nee Columbia) 350. Avidyne has also submitted paperwork to the FAA and is expecting STC approval of the TWX670 for the Cessna 400 (Columbia 400) in the coming weeks.

"In owning several aircraft over the years, I have gained a real appreciation for the benefits of real-time lightning detection," said Chuck Yanke, Columbia 400 owner, and former president of the Cessna Advanced Aircraft Club (formerly the Columbia/Lancair Owners and Pilots Association). "I have found that cloud to cloud lightning typically appears in the early stages of storm formation, while cloud to ground lighting appears once a storm has more fully developed. Having the TWX670 on board is really like having an early warning weather system, and it provides a perfect complement to my satellite broadcast datalink."

Entegra-equipped aircraft can display the TWX670's color lightning on the EX5000 MFD and have full support for all modes including display of close-range strikes, TWxCell and Color Strike mode. This requires that the MFD be upgraded to software Release 8. Release 8 is available for Release 7-equipped MFDs for $495. Release 8 is available for MFDs that are Release 6 or older for $1,095. Avidyne is currently running a Q1 2009 promotion that provides Release 8 upgrade free of charge with the purchase of the TWX670.

For non-Entegra aircraft, the TWX670 is fully compatible with Avidyne's MHD300 3-ATI Multi-Hazard Display, which also supports all color modes. In addition, the TWX670's 'Compatibility Mode' provides monochrome strike display capability on third-party displays such as the Garmin GNS430 and G1000.

"Up until now, Cessna 350 and 400 owners have had no viable option for an on-board, real-time weather solution," said Rob Higby, Avidyne's vice president of Marketing, Sales and Service. "With this STC, these aircraft owners can now install a TWX670 and get the tactical and strategic benefits of a lightning detection system, increasing the safety, utility, and overall value of their aircraft."

The TWX670 is available now and has a list price of $7,995. Through its dealer network, Avidyne is currently taking orders and accepting deposits for TWX670 systems to be installed in C350 and C400 aircraft.

In addition, Avidyne currently offers a $1,000 discount on the TWX670 to all of its existing Avidyne Entegra/EX500/EX5000 owners.

FMI: www.avidyne.com