Retrofit Available To All Aircraft Now In Service

Officials with Raytheon Aircraft Company (RAC) told ANN Friday the company is now offering electronic dimmable window shade systems for all models of its Beechcraft King Air aircraft, of which there are more than 6,200 in operation. The innovative window shades permit passengers and flight crew to instantly control the darkness of cabin windows by varying the tint on each window.

The new shades are supplied by InspecTech Aero Service, Inc. (IAS), under a supplemental type certificate (STC) issued on January 16, 2007. Raytheon says this is the first time an aircraft manufacturer has offered this generation of electronic variable-light-transmission window shades.

"We had been evaluating dimmable window shade technology for the past couple of years," said Randy Groom, president, Global Customer Service and Support. "The fast switching speed, wide range of light transmission, longevity, superior performance and lighter weight are features we were looking for to enhance our product line. This product is in line with our business strategy to provide world-class service, increase customer satisfaction with their aircraft and flying experience, as well as reducing customers’ operating costs and aircraft downtime. To that end, we are offering a 5-year warranty on these electronic window shades, one of the best warranties in the business."

The design of the electronic window shade system safely and efficiently provides cabin window shades that are dynamically dimmable to maximize passenger comfort and protect cabin interiors. This is made possible by a special patented SPD (suspended particle device) light-control film developed and licensed by Research Frontiers Inc.

By using a switch located on each window, the passenger can control how dark or light an individual window becomes without the need for pull-down, polarized, or electro-mechanical shades. In addition to the aesthetic benefits which include infinitely adjustable light control, noise reduction, and pleasing appearance, passengers are also protected from sunlight, glare, and harmful ultraviolet radiation.

The window shades also can also be centrally controlled by the flight crew and they protect cabin interiors from excessive solar heat as well as sun bleaching when electrical power is turned off.

RAC previewed the new electronic window shades at the National Business Aviation Association (NBAA) Annual Meeting & Convention in Orlando, FL in October 2006. Due to what it terms he excellent customer response to this new product, RAC is extending the promotional pricing to its customers through April 20, 2007.

Raytheon Aircraft Company and InspecTech are currently working on electronic window shade certification for other RAC aircraft including the Beechjet, Premier and the Hawker line. The certifications for these additional aircraft are expected to occur in 2007.

FMI: www.raytheonaircraft.com