G1000 Makes Its Way To The Caravan; TKS For Cargo Pod-Equipped Birds

Cessna Aircraft Company announced Monday at NBAA 2007 the Garmin G1000 integrated avionics package, which includes the GFC700 flight control system, will be standard equipment for all Caravan models: the Cessna 208, the Grand Caravan (208B) and the Super CargoMaster, with incorporation beginning in the first half of 2008.

The Garmin G1000 system designed for the Caravan includes three 10" displays -- two primary flight displays (PFD) and one multi function display (MFD), similar to the G1000 layout for the Citation Mustang. One of the PFDs can serve as a backup, increasing dispatch ability.

The Caravan G1000 system incorporates the GFC700 -- an integrated, dual-channel digital autopilot. Other features include a flight director, go-around mode and Wide Area Augmentation System (WAAS) which can provide precision guidance to airports where there are currently no precision approaches. It also includes SafeTaxi -- a graphical representation of the aircraft on the ground in the airport environment in relation to labeled taxiways, runways and buildings during taxi. Radar, TAWS-B, XM radio and XM weather are optional features.

Addressing icing concerns with the Caravan, Cessna also announced it will offer optional TKS ice protection from Aerospace Systems & Technology, Inc. on cargo pod-equipped Caravans scheduled for delivery during the first half of 2008.

The TKS ice protection system releases glycol based fluid through laser-drilled panels on the leading edges of the wings, horizontal and vertical stabilizers to prevent ice accumulation. A slinger ring on the propeller also emits fluid to keep the prop, windshield, cargo pod and landing gear free of ice.

Cessna's Caravan orders this year have already reached 200% of the goal for 2007... leading to production rates beginning in 2008 that are more than double recent volumes.  

FMI: www.cessna.com