KING AIR 260 ANNOUNCED
Textron has introduced an updated 200-series King Air. The King Air 260 has Innovative Solutions & Support (IS&S) ThrustSense autothrottle, a new digital pressurization controller and the Collins Aerospace Multi-Scan RTA-4112 weather radar. “These investments reflect our commitment to providing superior upgrades and engineering innovation that create the best flying experience for Beechcraft King Air 260 owners and operators around the world,” said Textron Aviation CEO Ron Draper. The 260 carries nine passengers, can cruise at 310 knots and has a range of 1720 nautical miles. It’s already in production and first deliveries are expected in 2021.
CHEROKEE SPAR INSPECTION AD IN FORCE
The FAA issued its final rule on an AD affecting 11,476 PA-28 and PA-32 aircraft in the U.S. The AD requires inspection of hard-to-see sections of the wing spars to detect corrosion. The final version of the AD allows the inspection to be done with a borescope that can be fished through existing openings. It should cost less than $200. The first versions of the AD would have required inspection panels to be cut in the skins and that’s still an option. The inspections can also be done during major repairs. The inspections have to be carried out within 100 hours of the publication date of November 23, 2020, or within a year of that date.
