Blog Archive

G1000 NXi for the next generation of Piper M350 and M500 aircraft

2018 models of Piper M350 and M500 feature Garmin’s new and improved G1000 NXi which incorporates innovative capabilities into a proven avionics platform with significant performance enhancements.

By incorporating modern processing power, the most noticeable improvement is faster map rendering, smoother panning and clearer, brighter displays. Valuable time is saved as the displays initialize within seconds after start-up, providing immediate access to frequencies, flight plan data and more.

Utilizing wireless cockpit technology unlocks even more capabilities. Flight Stream 510, available as an option, enables the wireless transfer of aviation databases from the Garmin Pilot app on a mobile device to the G1000 NXi system. It also supports two-way flight plan transfer, the sharing of traffic, weather, GPS information, back-up attitude information and more, between the G1000 NXi and compatible mobile devices running Garmin Pilot or ForeFlight mobile.

New map overlays within the HSI on the primary flight display enables the display of a variety of graphical elements while viewing other information on the multi-function display. NEXRAD, FIS-B weather, weather radar, SafeTaxi airport diagrams, traffic, terrain and more can be selected. For example, pilots can display NEXRAD radar and traffic on the HSI map while preparing flight plan information on the multi-function display.

Visual approaches have been integrated offering safety-enhancing guidance during visual flight conditions based on a three-degree glideslope from the threshold of the runway. Pilots can select the runway for which they have been cleared to land, set customized minimums, select vectors or straight-in for the final approach intercept and fly a visual approach coupled with the autopilot. This gives pilots a more stable and precise flight path throughout the approach and landing phases of flight in visual conditions.

One option to consider is SurfaceWatch runway monitoring. This technology aids in situation awareness while providing visual and aural cues to help prevent taking off and landing on a taxiway, on a runway that is too short or on the wrong runway based on performance data entered during preflight. Visual and audible runway distance remaining annunciations, which provides aural callouts beginning at 5,000 feet through 500 feet, are also available.

Equipped to meet future airspace modernization initiatives, the G1000 NXi system is rule-compliant with FAA ADS-B requirements. It also supports the display of various ADS-B In benefits, including traffic and subscription-free weather. Flight Information Service-Broadcast weather products include: NEXRAD, METARs, TAFs, PIREPs, winds and temperatures aloft, NOTAMs, AIRMETs and SIGMETs. Additional products provide pilots with target trajectories and closure rates, and/or a comprehensive picture of ADS-B-equipped aircraft and ground vehicles throughout the airport environment. These ADS-B In benefits combine to give pilots superior situational awareness tools throughout the terminal and enroute environments.

Additional G1000 NXi features:

Advanced Doppler weather radar capabilities, including ground clutter suppression and turbulence detection as options.
COMM frequency identification displays the station ID, as well as frequency type.
Display of sectional charts, as well as IFR low/high enroute charts on the MFD.
NEXRAD weather radar imagery can be overlaid on the moving map and animated on the MFD, as well as the HSI map.
Vertical Situation Display (VSD) incorporates terrain profile view on the MFD, taking into consideration the active flight plan, altitude constraints and winds aloft.
Pilots can preview departure and arrival procedures on the MFD prior to loading and activating the procedures.
Three-color terrain shading incorporates green, yellow and red contouring, which depicts the aircraft is 2,000, 1,000 and 100 feet above ground level (AGL) respectively.

Note: Specific G1000 NXi information obtained from garmin.com

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Jet Charter Fleet Provides Travel Options Tailored to Your Needs

As the largest charter operator in the Kansas City metropolitan region, there is a reason why the bulk of KCAC Aviation’s charter trips are completed by repeat customers who have grown accustomed to the personalized and professional service provided by KCAC’s flight crews and dispatch teams. Great service and flexible options means customers can be confident in matching the right aircraft for their travel needs.

A few guidelines

Determining which aircraft best fits the needs for your trip can be broken down into 3 categories – cabin size, speed and range. The more people you plan to take obviously drives the number of seats required. But you also have choices in cabin width and ceiling height as well. Also consider how far you need to go and how fast you need to get there. On shorter flights, faster isn’t necessarily the most economical option.

The charter coordinators at KCAC work with you to determine the best aircraft for your mission, passenger load, distance and destination. KCAC’s fleet of aircraft are all-weather equipped and can provide wi-fi access on the go. Typical charter aircraft offered by KCAC are included below, with aircraft options available, such as long-range business jets, to best suit one’s travel needs.

Pilatus PC-12

Seats: 6-9 Passengers
Speed: 285 KTAS (327 MPH)
Range: 1,845 nm
Price per Hour: $1,590

Cessna Citation Encore

Seats: 6-7 Passengers
Speed: 428 KTAS (492 MPH)
Range: 1,300 nm
Price per Hour: $3,150

Cessna Citation CJ3+

Seats: 6-7 Passengers
Speed: 416 KTAS (478 MPH)
Range: 2,040 nm
Price per Hour: $3,150

KCAC’s dispatch team has over 75 years of combined experience serving KCAC alone – not including years spent outside the organization honing their aviation skills and expertise. Customers know that the flight crews for KCAC provide the highest level of professional service available. Between annual aircraft re-current training and rigorous hours of simulator training twice a year, to the personalized level of attention provided throughout the duration of a trip, KCAC’s team of pilots genuinely care about ensuring that their passengers’ travel experience exceeds their expectations.

Charter customers also find peace of mind in understanding the charter fleet is meticulously maintained by KCAC’s own factory-trained technicians. Not only to comply with the guidelines of KCAC’s Part 135 Charter Certificate and maintain KCAC’s ARGUS Gold rating, but to adhere to the high standards that KCAC strives in delivering the best service possible.

There are many advantages to chartering an aircraft. Whether its cabin size, speed or range, the helpful charter coordinators at KCAC will help you figure out what best criteria to use to match the right aircraft for your trip. To find out more, contact the Charter team at KCAC Aviation today at 913-782-0530.

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Pilatus Carries On Heritage Of “Swiss Made”

The phrase “Swiss made” is synonymous with quality, precision and functionality. With a long heritage in manufacturing and craftsmanship, products created in Switzerland epitomize the highest standards in reliability, stability and attention to detail.

Pilatus aircraft are no exception. Manufactured in Switzerland, Pilatus holds the same trademarks of all Swiss made goods. No feature is overlooked, no feat of engineering too great for the engineers behind these powerful aircraft.

In developing the PC-12 NGX and the new super versatile jet, the PC-24, the craftsman at Pilatus strive to create the finest aircraft, focused on manufacturing excellence, old-world craftsmanship and the pursuit of precision. Pilatus owners enjoy the aircraft’s refined styling and steadfast performance. And the unique combination of Swiss engineering and craftsmanship creates an incomparable flight experience.

Built on a Heritage of Swiss Manufacturing

Watches. Chocolate. Cheese. Each of these Swiss-manufactured products, lives up to its reputation for exceptional quality. Since the 15th century, when Swiss watches first emerged, Switzerland has been known for its manufacturing practices. Pilatus upholds this heritage of manufacturing distinction. In fact, many second- and third-generation employees work at Pilatus, bringing with them the knowledge and know-how of their ancestors before them. From efficiency to versatility, they create aircraft that meet the highest standards of excellence.

Created Using Old-world Craftsmanship

Pilatus merges state-of-the-art technology with traditional Swiss craftsmanship to create extraordinary aircraft. Nowhere can this craftsmanship be seen more than in a Pilatus cabin. From the custom leatherwork, to the rare-wood cabinetry and fine upholstery, the manufacturer’s attention to detail shines through. Each piece is crafted to meet customer requirements, with both form and function taking front seat.

Committed to the Pursuit of Precision

Pilatus boasts of its reputation for “over-engineered precision.” The manufacturer’s engineers meticulously inspect each component to ensure it will deliver the best results and performance for customers. And, Pilatus aircraft live up to these high standards of precision and quality. Each aircraft is designed with customer feedback and mission completion in mind. The Pilatus PC-12 NGX and PC-24 take engineering to a higher level, while keeping functionality and safety first and foremost.

When you purchase a Pilatus aircraft you gain a plane with all the hallmarks of a Swiss-made product – dependability, quality and performance. To learn more about Pilatus and how a PC-12 or PC-24 can take your business to new heights, contact the KCAC sales team at 913.324.1250.