Training & Certification
Garmin Autoland and Autothrottle Retrofit Certified for King Air 350
FAA certifies Garmin Autoland and Autothrottle retrofit for Beechcraft King Air 350, enhancing safety and automation for existing aircraft fleets.
The aviation industry is experiencing a pivotal shift with the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) certification of Garmin’s Autoland and Autothrottle systems for retrofit installation in select Beechcraft King Air 350 aircraft equipped with the G1000 NXi flight deck. This milestone marks the first time these advanced autonomous safety technologies are available as retrofit solutions for twin-engine turboprop aircraft, expanding their reach beyond new aircraft deliveries to the vast existing fleet. The development not only enhances operational safety for one of the most widely used turboprop platforms but also underscores the growing momentum toward intelligent automation in general aviation.
Garmin’s certification signals a new era where Automation can intervene during critical flight scenarios, such as pilot incapacitation or engine failure, to prevent accidents and reduce pilot workload. As the retrofit and modernization market grows, the availability of such technologies offers operators a cost-effective way to upgrade safety and efficiency without the need for new aircraft acquisition. This article explores the historical evolution, technical capabilities, market implications, and future prospects of Garmin’s Autoland and Autothrottle retrofit certification for the King Air 350.
Autoland technology has its origins in the post-World War II era, when poor visibility at European airports necessitated the automation of landings to improve safety. The Blind Landing Experimental Unit, established in the mid-1940s in the United Kingdom, pioneered research that led to the first successful autoland systems. These early efforts demonstrated that autopilots could track Instrument Landing System (ILS) signals more accurately than human pilots, especially in low-visibility conditions. The principles established during this period, such as minimum visibility requirements and target safety levels, remain foundational to autoland system certification today.
Garmin began its journey into emergency autoland technology in 2001, launching a full-scale development program in 2010. The company invested heavily, with over 100 employees and significant financial resources dedicated to the project. Extensive flight testing, including hundreds of test landings across multiple aircraft types, culminated in the first commercial certification of Garmin Autoland on the Cirrus Vision Jet in 2020. This achievement was recognized with the 2020 Collier Trophy, awarded for the greatest achievement in American aeronautics or astronautics.
Since then, Garmin has expanded autoland capabilities to other platforms, including the Piper M600 and, more recently, the Beechcraft King Air series. The progression from single-engine to twin-engine aircraft certification required additional safety analysis to address the complexities of multi-engine operations. The King Air 350 certification represents the latest step in this evolution, bringing advanced automation to a broader segment of the general aviation market.
“The certification of Autoland and Autothrottle for retrofit installation on the King Air 350 is a transformative step in general aviation safety, offering unprecedented emergency response capabilities to existing aircraft operators.”
The Beechcraft King Air 350 is a flagship twin-engine turboprop, renowned for its versatility, reliability, and performance. Introduced in 1990, the aircraft features a maximum takeoff weight of 15,000 pounds, a cruise speed of 320 knots, and a range of up to 1,800 nautical miles in standard configurations. Its spacious cabin, robust landing gear, and ability to operate from shorter or unimproved runways make it a preferred choice for corporate, government, and special mission operators worldwide.
The King Air 350’s popularity is reflected in its fleet size, nearly 800 units produced between 1990 and 2009, and its strong value retention in the pre-owned market. Operators appreciate its operational flexibility, lower operating costs compared to jets, and compatibility with advanced avionics upgrades like the Garmin G1000 NXi. This makes the King Air 350 an ideal candidate for retrofit solutions that enhance safety and automation.
Market data indicates that approximately 5% of the King Air 350 fleet is for sale at any given time, with asking prices ranging from $2.25 million to $6 million depending on age, usage, and equipment. The aircraft’s enduring appeal and broad operator base create a substantial addressable market for retrofit technologies like Autoland and Autothrottle. The aircraft retrofit and modernization market is experiencing robust growth, driven by aging fleets and the high cost of new aircraft. The global aircraft refurbishing market was valued at over $24 billion in 2023 and is projected to surpass $39 billion by 2030. For Military-Aircraft, the global modernization and retrofit market is expected to grow from $62.6 billion in 2024 to $84.8 billion by 2033. North America leads this sector, benefiting from technological expertise and a large installed base of legacy aircraft.
For operators, retrofitting provides a cost-effective path to extend aircraft service life, improve safety, and comply with evolving regulatory and insurance requirements. Garmin’s integrated G1000 NXi platform streamlines the retrofit process, reducing installation costs and enabling the seamless addition of advanced features such as Autoland and Autothrottle. This approach not only lowers barriers to adoption but also creates opportunities for recurring revenue through software updates and maintenance contracts.
The economic benefits extend to job creation and skill development within the aviation maintenance and services sector. Authorized Garmin dealers and service centers are equipped to perform these complex installations, supporting local economies and fostering specialized technical expertise.
Garmin’s leadership in the Avionics market is underpinned by its comprehensive product portfolio, vertical integration, and strong brand reputation. The company holds a dominant position in aviation GPS and marine navigation, with limited competition from other avionics manufacturers. Its commitment to research and development, evidenced by nearly $1 billion in annual R&D spending, enables continuous innovation in automation and safety technologies.
The certification of Autoland and Autothrottle for the King Air 350 follows a deliberate regulatory process involving extensive validation and safety analysis. The FAA approval builds upon earlier certifications for single-engine aircraft, while the European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) has also certified these systems for retrofit on King Air 200 models. This dual recognition facilitates global market access and sets a precedent for future international certifications.
As the retrofit market expands, Garmin’s integrated approach positions it favorably against competitors who offer only component solutions. The ability to provide a complete avionics ecosystem, spanning navigation, automation, and safety, creates compelling value for operators seeking to modernize their fleets efficiently.
Garmin’s Autothrottle system automates engine power management throughout all phases of flight, from takeoff to landing. It maintains engine protection by preventing exceedances of temperature and torque limits and can automatically adjust throttle settings based on climb, cruise, and descent profiles. In emergency scenarios, such as engine failure, Autothrottle can instantly set the failed engine’s power lever and optimize the operative engine for safe flight, reducing pilot workload and minimizing the risk of incorrect responses.
The Autoland system is even more sophisticated, capable of autonomously navigating the aircraft to a safe landing in the event of pilot incapacitation or other emergencies. It evaluates multiple factors, including weather, fuel, runway suitability, and terrain, when selecting a diversion airport. Autoland also communicates with air traffic control and provides real-time updates to passengers, ensuring clarity and coordination during an emergency landing sequence. Activation of Autoland can be initiated by pilots or passengers via a dedicated, guarded button, or automatically if the system detects a critical emergency. To prevent inadvertent activation, pilots can easily disengage the system using standard autopilot disconnect procedures.
“In the event of engine failure, Garmin’s Autothrottle system can automatically manage throttle settings to maintain safe airspeed and directional control, providing a critical safety net during high-stress situations.”
The King Air family has an impressive safety record, with more than 40 million flight hours and a lower accident rate than many comparable twin-engine aircraft. However, specific incidents highlight the potential for automation to prevent tragedies. For example, a 2019 King Air 350 crash following an engine failure and incorrect rudder input resulted in the loss of all 10 people aboard. The National Transportation Safety Board identified pilot error during a high-stress emergency as a key factor.
Automated systems like Autothrottle and Autoland are designed to address precisely these scenarios. By providing immediate, correct responses to engine failures and other emergencies, they reduce the likelihood of human error and ensure that critical procedures are executed without delay. Industry experts and accident investigators acknowledge that such technology could have prevented certain fatal Accidents by maintaining control and executing emergency landings autonomously.
The psychological challenges faced by pilots during emergencies, such as stress-induced impairment, underscore the value of automation as a safety backup. Consistent, reliable system performance provides an additional layer of protection for both pilots and passengers.
Successful adoption of advanced automation relies on comprehensive training for pilots and maintenance technicians. Garmin provides both ground and flight training to ensure crews understand normal and emergency operations, system limitations, and manual override procedures. Simulator-based training allows pilots to experience emergency scenarios and practice activating Autoland in a controlled environment.
Maintenance personnel also require specialized training to service and troubleshoot these complex systems. Garmin’s authorized service network supports ongoing training and ensures high standards of installation quality and system reliability. Operational integration includes updating standard operating procedures, checklists, and emergency protocols to incorporate new automation capabilities.
Looking ahead, the certification of Autoland and Autothrottle for retrofit installation is a stepping stone toward broader adoption of autonomous flight technologies. As artificial intelligence, sensor integration, and regulatory frameworks evolve, the industry is likely to see routine automation move from emergency backup to standard operation, further enhancing safety and efficiency across the general aviation fleet.
Garmin’s FAA certification of Autoland and Autothrottle for the King Air 350 is a landmark achievement in aviation safety and automation. By making these systems available as retrofit solutions, Garmin empowers operators to enhance the Safety of existing aircraft without the prohibitive costs of new acquisitions. The economic and operational benefits are significant, with the retrofit market poised for continued growth as operators seek to modernize aging fleets and comply with evolving safety standards. This certification not only addresses critical safety challenges, such as emergency response and pilot incapacitation, but also sets the stage for the future evolution of autonomous flight. As technology matures and regulatory acceptance grows, systems like Autoland and Autothrottle are likely to become standard features, democratizing access to advanced safety and automation for operators worldwide.
What is Garmin Autoland? What does the Autothrottle system do? Which King Air 350 aircraft are eligible for the retrofit? How does Autoland improve safety? Has Autoland been certified outside the United States? Sources:
Introduction
Historical Development of Autoland Technology
King Air 350 Aircraft Platform and Market Analysis
Platform Overview and Capabilities
Retrofit Market Dynamics and Economic Impact
Competitive Landscape and Regulatory Milestones
Technical Capabilities and Safety Implications
Autothrottle and Autoland Functionality
Accident Prevention and Safety Record
Training, Implementation, and Future Prospects
Conclusion
FAQ
Garmin Autoland is an emergency automation system that can autonomously land an aircraft in the event of pilot incapacitation or other critical situations. It selects a suitable airport, navigates to it, communicates with air traffic control, and lands the plane safely without pilot input.
The Autothrottle system automatically manages engine power settings throughout all phases of flight, optimizing performance and protecting against engine exceedances. In emergencies, it can instantly adjust throttle settings to maintain safe flight profiles.
The retrofit is available for select Beechcraft King Air 350 aircraft equipped with the Garmin G1000 NXi integrated flight deck. Operators should consult with Garmin or authorized dealers for specific eligibility criteria.
Autoland provides an automated backup in emergencies, executing critical procedures such as diversion, approach, and landing autonomously. This reduces the risk of pilot error during high-stress situations and can prevent accidents caused by incapacitation or incorrect manual responses.
Yes, the European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) has certified Autoland and Autothrottle for retrofit installation on King Air 200 aircraft equipped with G1000 NXi avionics, paving the way for broader international adoption.
prnewswire.com,
Beechcraft
Photo Credit: Garmin
Training & Certification
Republic Airways Opens $200 Million Aviation Campus in Carmel Indiana
Republic Airways launches a $200 million headquarters and training campus in Carmel, Indiana, consolidating operations and enhancing pilot training.
This article summarizes reporting by Fox59.
Republic Airways has officially completed the transition to its new corporate headquarters and training campus in Carmel, Indiana. According to reporting by Fox59, the regional airline has consolidated its operations into a centralized hub located at the intersection of 126th Street and U.S. 31. The move marks the culmination of a $200 million investment designed to streamline operations and bolster the airline’s pilot training capabilities.
The new facility, situated within the Meridian Corporate Corridor, brings together the airline’s corporate leadership and its training subsidiary, LIFT Academy. By merging these functions, Republic Airways aims to create a seamless environment for workforce development, addressing critical industry challenges such as the ongoing global pilot shortage. The campus is now fully occupied as of February 2026, serving as the daily workplace for approximately 2,000 employees and trainees.
The development repurposes the former Hamilton Crossing retail center into a high-density, mixed-use aviation ecosystem. According to project details cited in reports, the campus features two primary structures and significant support infrastructure:
Matt Koscal, an executive at Republic Airways, emphasized the strategic intent behind the facility in a statement regarding the project’s vision:
“This project ensures Republic is positioned to attract and retain the most talented and trained professionals in aviation by creating a space designed specifically to meet the needs of our associates.”
A central driver of this relocation is the integration of the LIFT Academy, Republic’s proprietary flight school. By locating the training center adjacent to corporate headquarters, the airline has established a direct “classroom-to-cockpit” pathway. This physical proximity allows for daily interaction between student pilots and airline leadership, fostering a unified corporate culture.
The facility utilizes advanced flight simulation technology to prepare pilots for complex scenarios. This modernization effort aligns with the airline’s broader goal of reducing the time and cost associated with training new pilots, a necessary step to maintain fleet operations for partners such as American Eagle, Delta Connection, and United Express.
The Vertical Integration of Regional Aviation The project has been described as a significant revitalization effort for the City of Carmel. Local officials have noted that the campus transforms an aging retail site into a vibrant corporate anchor. The influx of daily trainees functions similarly to a permanent convention, driving consistent business to local restaurants and services. Former Carmel Mayor Jim Brainard, who was instrumental during the project’s announcement phase, highlighted the scale of the development:
“What an opportunity, to be able to build a brand new city… It will be Carmel’s largest employer.”
The development was supported by Tax Increment Financing (TIF) bonds, a mechanism where future property tax revenues generated by the site are used to fund necessary infrastructure improvements, such as the parking garage and street updates.
Where is the new Republic Airways headquarters located? What is the total cost of the project? How many employees work at the new campus? What airlines does Republic Airways operate for? Sources: Fox59
Republic Airways Unveils $200 Million Aviation Campus in Carmel
Campus Specifications and Infrastructure
Strategic Focus: The LIFT Academy Integration
AirPro News Analysis
The completion of Republic’s Carmel campus highlights a shifting strategy among U.S. regional airlines: vertical integration of the talent pipeline. Historically, regional carriers relied on third-party flight schools to supply pilots. However, as major carriers aggressively recruit from regional ranks, the “pilot churn” has accelerated. By building a $200 million physical asset dedicated to training, Republic Airways is attempting to insulate itself from market volatility. This campus is not just an office; it is a defensive moat designed to control the quality and volume of incoming flight crews in an era of scarcity.
Economic Impact on the Meridian Corridor
Frequently Asked Questions
The campus is located at 126th Street and U.S. 31 in Carmel, Indiana, within the Meridian Corporate Corridor.
The total investment for the aviation campus is approximately $200 million.
The site hosts approximately 2,000 employees, including corporate staff, technicians, and a rotating roster of trainees.
Republic Airways operates flights under the brands American Eagle (American Airlines), Delta Connection (Delta Air Lines), and United Express (United Airlines).
Photo Credit: Fox59
Training & Certification
CAE Launches Asia-Pacific’s First Boeing 777X Simulator in Singapore
CAE introduces the first Boeing 777X full-flight simulator in Asia-Pacific at its Singapore training centre, ready by Fall 2026 for pilot training.
CAE has officially announced the deployment of the first Boeing 777X full-flight simulator (FFS) in the Asia-Pacific region. According to a company press release, the advanced training device will be installed at the Singapore-CAE Flight Training (SCFT) Centre, a joint venture facility operated in partnership with Singapore Airlines near Changi Airport.
The new simulator, a CAE 7000XR Series model, represents a critical infrastructure milestone for Asian carriers preparing for the entry-into-service of Boeing’s newest widebody aircraft. CAE confirmed that the simulator is currently being installed and is scheduled to be ready for pilot Training by Fall 2026, pending regulatory qualification.
The placement of this simulator in Singapore addresses a significant logistical gap for Airlines in the region. Previously, operators preparing for the 777X would likely have needed to send flight crews to facilities in Europe or North America. By establishing a training footprint in Singapore, CAE aims to support the substantial order book for the 777X held by Asia-Pacific carriers.
Alexandre Prévost, CAE’s Division President for Civil Aviation, highlighted the strategic importance of the location in the company’s announcement:
“We are bringing the training capacity to where it is needed most, at the crossroads of Asia-Pacific aviation.”
, Alexandre Prévost, CAE Division President (Civil Aviation)
The SCFT Centre, established in 2018 as a 50/50 joint venture between CAE and Singapore Airlines, already houses simulators for the Boeing 737 MAX, 747, 777, and 787. The addition of the 777X device solidifies the facility’s status as a comprehensive Boeing training hub for the region.
According to technical details released by CAE, the new simulator will feature the CAE Prodigy™ Image Generator. This visual system leverages gaming-engine technology,specifically Epic Games’ Unreal Engine,to deliver high-fidelity, photorealistic training environments. Unlike previous generations of visual systems, the Prodigy generator is designed to render realistic 3D environments with high-density graphics. This includes dynamic lighting, realistic shadows, and “lifeforms” such as moving traffic and people on the ground. These enhancements are intended to improve pilot readiness by simulating complex weather and ground scenarios with greater accuracy.
The Fall 2026 operational target for this simulator aligns closely with the revised Delivery schedules for the Boeing 777X (777-9). While the aircraft program has faced multiple delays, the installation of training infrastructure suggests that the supply chain is preparing for a concrete entry-into-service window.
For airlines, the availability of a “Level D” simulator,the highest standard of flight simulation,prior to aircraft delivery is essential. It allows carriers to certify pilots and “pre-load” their workforce capabilities so that commercial operations can commence immediately once the physical aircraft are handed over. The presence of this device in Singapore is particularly vital for Singapore Airlines, which serves as the anchor tenant of the SCFT facility.
The Asia-Pacific region represents a massive market for the Boeing 777X. According to industry fleet data, several major carriers in the region have significant outstanding Orders for the type. By locating the simulator in Singapore, CAE is positioning itself to service not just Singapore Airlines, but also other key operators in East and Southeast Asia.
Key regional customers with 777X orders include:
While Lufthansa, the global launch customer, already has access to a CAE 777X simulator in Germany, and Middle Eastern carriers like Emirates and Qatar Airways maintain their own extensive training pipelines, the Singapore device fills the geographic void for the Far East market.
CAE Deploys Asia-Pacific’s First Boeing 777X Simulator to Singapore Training Hub
Strategic Infrastructure for Asian Carriers
Next-Generation Visual Technology
AirPro News Analysis: The Timing of Training
Regional Market Context
Frequently Asked Questions
Sources
Photo Credit: CAE
Training & Certification
B&H Worldwide Delivers Airbus A330 Cockpit to New Zealand for Training
B&H Worldwide transported an Airbus A330 cockpit from the UK to New Zealand for Pacific Simulators, ensuring biosecurity compliance and specialized sea freight handling.
This article is based on an official press release from B&H Worldwide.
Aerospace logistics specialist B&H Worldwide has announced the successful transport of a decommissioned Airbus A330 cockpit from the United Kingdom to Christchurch, New Zealand. The project, executed for flight training device manufacturer Pacific Simulators (PacSim), highlights the logistical complexities involved in repurposing retired aircraft components for the simulation market.
According to the company’s announcement on February 9, 2026, the operation involved a multi-modal transit route requiring precise handling to navigate strict biosecurity regulations and physical shipping constraints. The cockpit section is set to be converted into a high-fidelity, fixed-base Flight Training Device (FTD), extending the operational life of the airframe in a training capacity.
While B&H Worldwide is traditionally associated with time-critical “Aircraft on Ground” (AOG) air freight services, this project utilized sea freight, presenting a different set of engineering and handling challenges. The primary constraint involved fitting the wide-body cockpit section into a standard 20-foot sea freight container.
The process began in West Sussex, UK, where the unit was collected and transported to B&H Worldwide’s London Heathrow (LHR) facility. There, the logistics team performed specialized packing to ensure the irregularly shaped, high-value avionics and structural components could withstand the maritime journey without damage.
Lee Hedges, the New Zealand Branch Manager for B&H Worldwide, emphasized the significance of this operation in demonstrating the company’s broader capabilities beyond emergency logistics.
“While we are renowned for our time-critical AOG services, this successful delivery proves our capability to handle projects of any scale and scope. The safe arrival of the A330 cockpit in Christchurch is a testament to our team’s expertise in bespoke logistics solutions.”
, Lee Hedges, NZ Branch Manager, B&H Worldwide
Shipping heavy cargo into New Zealand requires adherence to some of the strictest biosecurity standards in the world. The Ministry for Primary Industries (MPI) enforces rigorous checks to prevent the introduction of invasive pests via sea containers. According to the release, the shipment required clearance through an Approved Transitional Facility (ATF) upon arrival in Christchurch. B&H Worldwide managed the documentation and packing materials, such as treated timber, to ensure full compliance, preventing potential delays or fumigation orders that could have compromised the sensitive electronic equipment inside the cockpit.
The delivery of this A330 cockpit underscores a growing trend in the aerospace training sector: the upcycling of retired airframes. As the global demand for pilot training increases, manufacturers like Pacific Simulators are turning to decommissioned aircraft to create Flight Training Devices (FTDs).
Unlike Full Flight Simulators (FFS), which are massive, motion-based systems costing tens of millions of dollars, FTDs often use real aircraft shells to provide tactile realism at a lower cost. From a logistics perspective, this trend creates a niche market for freight forwarders capable of moving large, fragile aircraft sections via cost-effective sea freight rather than expensive air cargo. We anticipate seeing more “hybrid” logistics projects where AOG specialists apply their handling expertise to heavy-lift sea freight to support the circular aviation economy.
Following customs and biosecurity clearance, the cockpit was delivered to Pacific Simulators’ facility in Christchurch. The unit will now undergo conversion into a simulator designed to replicate the A330 flight deck environment for pilot procedures training.
This project marks another collaboration between the logistics provider and the simulation manufacturer, reinforcing the supply chain links necessary to support the global flight training infrastructure.
Sources: B&H Worldwide
B&H Worldwide Executes Complex A330 Cockpit Delivery for Pacific Simulators
Navigating “Bespoke” Logistical Challenges
Biosecurity and Regulatory Compliance
AirPro News Analysis: The Shift Toward Sustainable Training Assets
Final Delivery and Repurposing
Photo Credit: B&H Worldwide
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