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
Tecnam P2008JC NG Launches with Fuel-Injected Engine and EASA Certification
Tecnam introduces the P2008JC NG featuring a fuel-injected Rotax engine, EASA CS-23 certification, 30% lower emissions, and advanced Garmin avionics for flight training.
This article is based on an official press release from Tecnam.
Italian aircraft manufacturer Tecnam has officially announced the launch of the P2008JC NG (Next Generation), a significant upgrade to one of its most popular single-engine trainers. According to the company’s announcement, the new model integrates the fuel-injected Rotax 912 iSc engine and has been certified to the latest EASA CS-23 airworthiness standards. The launch targets Flight Training Organizations (FTOs) looking to modernize fleets with aircraft that offer higher fuel efficiency and reduced environmental impact.
The P2008JC NG represents a strategic move by Tecnam to solidify its position in the global flight training market. By replacing legacy carbureted engines with modern fuel injection technology, the manufacturer aims to lower operating costs for flight schools while simplifying engine management for student pilots.
The core of the “NG” evolution is the adoption of the Rotax 912 iSc Sport engine. In its press materials, Tecnam highlights that this 100-horsepower powerplant replaces traditional carburetors with a redundant electronic fuel injection system. This change eliminates the risk of carburetor icing, a common safety concern in general aviation, and removes the need for manual mixture or choke adjustments during flight operations.
According to technical specifications released by the manufacturer, the new engine configuration delivers substantial efficiency gains:
Giovanni Pascale Langer, Tecnam’s Managing Director, emphasized the balance of efficiency and utility in the company’s official statement:
“The P2008JC NG represents a significant leap in training safety. By certifying to the latest CS-23 Amendment 6 standards, we have enhanced the aircraft’s safety characteristics specifically at very low speeds, the typical mission profile for ab-initio training. We needed an aircraft that works hard, consumes little, and inspires confidence.”
The P2008JC NG is certified under EASA CS-23 Amendment 6. This certification standard is rigorous, placing the aircraft in a high safety tier for General Aviation. Tecnam notes that this certification ensures enhanced handling characteristics, particularly in the low-speed regimes where student pilots spend much of their training time practicing stalls and landings.
The aircraft retains Tecnam’s signature hybrid construction approach. The fuselage is constructed from carbon fiber, allowing for a wider cabin and aerodynamic sleekness that is difficult to achieve with sheet metal. However, the wings and stabilator are built from metal. This design choice is intentional for the training market; metal wings are generally easier and cheaper to repair if they suffer “hangar rash” or minor damage in a busy flight school environment.
To prepare students for modern commercial cockpits, the P2008JC NG comes equipped with a glass cockpit as standard. The avionics suite features the Garmin G3X Touch, which provides situational awareness tools and flight data presentation similar to what pilots will encounter in airline operations. The interior has also been redesigned with ergonomics in mind. Updates include a new central console, improved window design for better visibility, and 3-point safety belts with inertial reels. An autopilot system is available as an option, allowing schools to conduct more advanced Instrument Flight Rules (IFR) procedural training on a VFR-capable platform.
The introduction of the P2008JC NG highlights a broader trend in the flight training industry: the shift away from 1970s-era designs toward modern, efficient platforms. While legacy aircraft like the Cessna 152 and 172 remain workhorses, their fuel burn and maintenance requirements are significantly higher than modern Rotax-powered alternatives.
For a flight school, the difference between burning 8–10 gallons per hour in a legacy trainer versus 3.7 gallons in the P2008JC NG represents a massive reduction in direct operating costs. Furthermore, as European regulators and airports place increasing pressure on noise and emissions, the “green” credentials of the NG model, specifically the 30% CO2 reduction cited by Tecnam, may become a critical selling point for academies operating in environmentally sensitive regions.
However, the challenge for modern composite or hybrid aircraft remains long-term durability. Metal legacy fleets have proven they can survive 40+ years of student abuse. It remains to be seen if the hybrid carbon-metal construction of the P2008JC NG can match that longevity, though the metal wings are a strategic concession to that reality.
Tecnam Unveils P2008JC NG: A Fuel-Injected Evolution for Flight Training
Engineering and Performance Upgrades
Safety and Certification Standards
Hybrid Airframe Design
Avionics and Interior
AirPro News Analysis
Sources
Photo Credit: Tecnam
Training & Certification
Cirrus SR Series G7+ Gains EASA and UK CAA Certification for Europe
Cirrus Aircraft’s SR Series G7+ receives EASA and UK CAA type certification, introducing Safe Return™ Emergency Autoland to European piston aircraft.
This article is based on an official press release from Cirrus Aircraft.
Cirrus Aircraft has officially received type certification from both the European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) and the UK Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) for its SR Series G7+ aircraft. Announced on December 9, 2025, this regulatory milestone clears the way for immediate deliveries of the manufacturer’s latest single-engine piston models, the SR20, SR22, and SR22T, to customers across Europe and the United Kingdom.
The certification marks a significant technological shift for the European general Commercial-Aircraft market. The “G7+” designation distinguishes this model from the standard G7 introduced earlier in 2024. While the G7 focused on a flight deck redesign, the G7+ introduces the Safe Return™ Emergency Autoland system as standard equipment. According to the company’s announcement, this makes the SR Series G7+ the first single-engine piston aircraft in the European market to feature a certified autonomous landing system capable of taking control during pilot incapacitation.
The primary differentiator for the newly certified G7+ is the integration of the Safe Return™ system, powered by Garmin Autoland technology. Previously available only on the jet-powered Vision Jet, this technology has now been standardized for the piston fleet. In the event of an emergency, such as pilot hypoxia or a cardiac event, a passenger can activate the system via a button on the cabin ceiling.
Once engaged, the system performs a complex sequence of autonomous actions without human intervention:
In addition to the Autoland capability, the G7+ certification includes other automated enhancements designed to reduce pilot workload. These include “Smart Pitot Heat,” which automatically engages based on outside air temperature to prevent icing, and Cirrus IQ™ Pro, a connectivity suite that facilitates real-time health monitoring and automatic database updates.
“We are pleased to receive EASA and UK CAA approval for the SR Series G7+ with Safe Return™ Emergency Autoland… European owners enjoy premium innovation, safety and quality with the SR Series G7+.”
, Zean Nielsen, CEO of Cirrus Aircraft
The dual certification from EASA and the UK CAA is a critical component of Cirrus Aircraft’s growth Strategy in the region. According to data referenced in reports by Flight Global, Europe currently represents the company’s second-largest market, accounting for approximately 11% of global deliveries. Cirrus has stated a strategic objective to increase this market share to between 20% and 30%.
By securing approval for the G7+, Cirrus aims to leverage the region’s focus on safety features. The complex airspace and variable weather conditions in Europe often drive buyers toward aircraft with advanced Avionics and redundancy. The immediate availability of the G7+ allows Cirrus to fulfill existing Orders and target new buyers looking for the specific safety net provided by the Autoland system. The certification of the G7+ establishes a significant competitive advantage for Cirrus in the high-performance piston sector. While competitors like Diamond Aircraft (based in Austria) and Piper Aircraft (USA) offer strong alternatives in the single-engine piston category, Cirrus is currently the only Manufacturers offering a certified autonomous landing system in this class within the European market.
We observe that this move effectively blurs the line between high-end piston aircraft and entry-level turbines. By migrating “Vision Jet” technology down to the SR Series, Cirrus is likely attempting to upsell owner-pilots who might otherwise consider moving to a competitor’s turboprop for perceived safety gains. Furthermore, achieving simultaneous certification from both EASA and the UK CAA demonstrates a successful navigation of the post-Brexit regulatory landscape, ensuring that the G7+ faces no friction in accessing the continent’s two most vital general aviation jurisdictions.
The rollout of the G7 platform has been rapid. The initial SR Series G7, featuring the new touchscreen flight deck and improved ergonomics, was launched in January 2024. The “Plus” variant, adding the Autoland capability, was introduced to the US market in May 2025. With the December 2025 certification, the European market has now caught up to the North American standard, unifying the product line globally.
Deliveries to European and UK customers are expected to commence immediately.
Cirrus SR Series G7+ Secures EASA and UK CAA Certification, Bringing Autonomous Landing to Europe
The “Plus” Distinction: Safety and Autonomy
Strategic Expansion in the European Market
AirPro News Analysis: A Competitive Moat
Timeline of the G7 Evolution
Sources
Photo Credit: Cirrus
Training & Certification
Diamond Aircraft Restarts European DA20i Production with First Delivery
Diamond Aircraft resumes European production of the DA20i Katana at its Austria facility, delivering the first unit to Aviation Academy Austria.
Diamond Aircraft has officially restarted European production of its two-seat DA20 trainer after a hiatus of more than a decade. In a ceremony held at the company’s headquarters in Wiener Neustadt, Austria, the manufacturer delivered the first newly built DA20i Katana to its launch customer, Aviation Academy Austria (AAA).
The delivery, which took place on November 28, 2025, marks a strategic shift for Diamond Aircraft. For the past 13 years, the DA20 was manufactured exclusively in London, Ontario, primarily for the North American market. By bringing production back to Austria, the company aims to address the surging demand for flight training across Europe while mitigating the logistical costs and tariffs associated with importing aircraft from Canada.
The resumption of the DA20 line in Europe is a direct response to the region’s growing need for modern, cost-effective training fleets. According to Diamond Aircraft, the decision to produce the aircraft locally allows for faster delivery times to European flight schools and offers a configuration specifically tailored to the local market.
Aviation Academy Austria, located directly adjacent to the Diamond factory at Wiener Neustadt airfield, was the natural launch customer. The academy ordered two DA20i aircraft; the first was handed over during the ceremony, with the second scheduled for delivery in early 2026. AAA already operates a mixed fleet of Diamond aircraft, including older DA20s, DA40 NGs, and DA42 NG-VI twins.
In a statement regarding the delivery, Oliver Karall, CEO of Aviation Academy Austria, highlighted the importance of modernizing training equipment:
“We are thrilled to welcome the new DA20i Katana into our fleet… [it] allows our students to experience the very best in modern flight training. This aircraft perfectly aligns with our mission to provide state-of-the-art training solutions.”
While the North American DA20-C1 has remained a staple in flight schools, the new European DA20i Katana introduces significant technical updates designed for European operating environments. The most notable difference lies in the powerplant and avionics suite.
The European model is powered by the Rotax 912 iSc3 Sport engine (100 hp), replacing the Continental IO-240-B32B (125 hp) found in the Canadian variant. According to technical specifications released by Diamond, this switch results in substantial fuel savings:
To prepare students for modern airline cockpits, the DA20i is equipped with a Garmin G500TXi glass cockpit. This upgrade replaces legacy analog instruments, allowing ab-initio students to train on digital interfaces from their very first flight hours.
Jane Wang, Sales Director for Diamond Aircraft Austria, emphasized the blend of heritage and modernity in the new model: “Relaunching production of the DA20i Katana, and now delivering the first unit in Europe, marks another exciting chapter for Diamond Aircraft… The DA20i blends tradition with innovation.”
The relaunch comes at a critical time for the aviation industry. Citing data from CAE’s Aviation Talent Forecast, industry reports indicate a need for 64,000 new pilots in Europe over the next decade. Flight schools are expanding their fleets to meet this intake, driving demand for efficient primary trainers.
The market has already responded to the availability of the European-built model. Shortly after the announcement involving AAA, AELO Swiss Academy signed a deal for 12 DA20i aircraft with options for six more. Based in Locarno, Switzerland, AELO cited the aircraft’s environmental credentials and operating efficiency as key drivers for their fleet standardization.
The return of the DA20 to European production lines is more than a nostalgic nod to the company’s history; it is a calculated economic maneuver. European flight schools face significantly higher fuel costs and stricter noise abatement regulations than their North American counterparts. By offering a Rotax-powered variant produced locally, Diamond eliminates the trans-Atlantic shipping costs and import tariffs that made the Canadian DA20-C1 less competitive in Europe.
Furthermore, the shift to the Garmin G500TXi in a primary trainer reflects a broader industry trend. Airlines increasingly prefer cadets who are “glass-cockpit native,” reducing the training gap when students transition to complex turbine aircraft. The DA20i appears positioned to serve as a bridge between cost-effective ab-initio training and professional airline preparation.
Diamond Aircraft Resumes European Production with First DA20i Delivery
A Milestone for European Flight Training
Technical Evolution: The DA20i Katana
Engine and Efficiency
Modern Avionics
Market Context and Future Orders
AirPro News Analysis
Frequently Asked Questions
Sources
Photo Credit: Diamond Aircraft
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