This article is based on an official press release from Dynon Avionics.

Dynon SkyView HDX Autopilot Receives FAA Approval for Vintage Mooney Models

Dynon Avionics has officially announced FAA approval for the installation of its SkyView HDX autopilot system in Mooney M20C, M20D, M20E, and M20F aircraft. This certification expands the company’s reach into the vintage general aviation market, offering a modern, digital flight control solution for airframes dating back to the 1960s.

According to the company’s announcement on February 3, 2026, this approval builds upon previous certifications for the later M20J and M20K models. The update provides owners of these earlier “short body” Mooneys with a pathway to replace aging vacuum-based systems with fully integrated glass-cockpit technology. The system is available immediately for installation through authorized centers.

Technical Capabilities and Safety Features

The newly approved system offers comprehensive 3-axis control, covering pitch, roll, and yaw. A significant addition for the Mooney fleet, which is often noted for “dutch roll” tendencies in turbulence, is the inclusion of a yaw damper. This feature actively coordinates turns and stabilizes the aircraft, improving passenger comfort and pilot workload.

Dynon states that the autopilot is fully IFR-capable when paired with a compatible third-party navigator, such as the Avidyne IFD or Garmin GTN series. In this configuration, the system can fly coupled approaches, including ILS, LPV, and VOR procedures.

Beyond standard navigation, the system introduces safety features previously unavailable to these vintage airframes. The autopilot includes envelope protection to prevent overspeed and underspeed conditions. Additionally, it features a “Level Mode,” which allows a pilot to instantly return the aircraft to straight-and-level flight with the press of a button, a critical safety tool in potential spatial disorientation scenarios.

Installation Requirements and Pricing

It is important for owners to note that this is not a standalone autopilot. According to Dynon’s technical specifications, the autopilot servos must be driven by a SkyView HDX primary flight display (PFD). This requirement means that installing the autopilot effectively necessitates a partial panel upgrade to a glass cockpit.

The pricing structure released by Dynon breaks down as follows:

• Autopilot Package: Starts at $6,755 (includes servos, mounting brackets, and harnesses).
• Required Display: A 7-inch SkyView HDX display is approximately $3,286, while the 10-inch version is listed at roughly $4,625.
• Optional Components: A dedicated Autopilot Control Panel is available for $697, and a Knob Control Panel for $352.

The M20D “Master,” originally sold with fixed gear but often converted to retractable gear, is covered under this approval regardless of its landing gear status.

AirPro News Analysis

This announcement represents a significant shift in the retrofit market for legacy aircraft. For decades, owners of 1960s and 70s Mooneys have relied on pneumatic autopilots, such as the Brittain systems, which are becoming increasingly difficult and expensive to repair. By offering a digital alternative, Dynon is effectively allowing these airframes to bypass generations of analog technology.

From a market perspective, this move intensifies the competition with Garmin. While Garmin’s GFC 500 is widely considered the “gold standard” for retrofits, it generally commands a premium price and requires integration into the Garmin ecosystem (typically requiring a G5 or G3X display). Dynon’s offering, with an entry price for the autopilot hardware under $7,000, presents a cost-effective alternative for owners who may find the total cost of a Garmin panel difficult to justify relative to the hull value of an older M20C or E.

However, the “hidden cost” remains the requirement for the SkyView HDX screen. While the autopilot hardware is competitively priced, the total installed cost, including the display, labor, and panel work, will likely fall in the $15,000 to $20,000 range. Nevertheless, for owners committed to keeping these efficient airframes flying, this approval offers a vital modernization path that enhances both utility and safety.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which Mooney models are covered by this new approval?
The FAA approval covers the Mooney M20C (Ranger), M20D (Master), M20E (Chaparral/Super 21), and M20F (Executive). The M20J and M20K were previously approved.

Can I install the autopilot without a Dynon screen?
No. The Dynon autopilot is software-integrated and requires a SkyView HDX flight display to function. It cannot operate as a standalone unit with analog gauges.

Does the system replace my vacuum pump?
Yes, the Dynon system is fully digital. If an owner installs the SkyView HDX and suitable backup instruments, the vacuum system, a common point of mechanical failure, can often be removed entirely.

Sources

• Dynon Avionics