BendixKing’s strategy of offering integrated cockpits comprised of several different systems supplied by itself and partner avionics manufacturers appears to be paying off. The new Alpha King single-engine trainer from Pipistrel will fly with BendixKing’s xVue Touch cockpit, a VFR-only panel dominated by a high-resolution touchscreen flight display flanked by GPS navigators produced by Avidyne but now carrying the iconic BK brand name.
The strategy is allowing BendixKing to better compete in the general aviation avionics market by offering a range of products developed in-house and by parent company Honeywell, while filling in gaps with partner products, such as the Avidyne units, autopilots from TruTrak Flight Systems, and audio panel from PS Engineering.
Pipistrel said it sees value in choosing the BendixKing cockopit for its newest trainer.
“We want to ensure that students and instructors can take advantage of all the advancements afforded by new technology while still delivering a high-quality aircraft, which makes the Alpha King an ideal solution for flight schools,” said Ivo Boscarol, founder and president of Pipistrel, which is based in Slovenia. “We recognize the unmatched value in BendixKing avionics, which enables us to offer an extremely cost-effective and affordable new generation of training aircraft and build upon our existing, ongoing relationship with Honeywell as a whole.”
Pipistrel anticipates the BendixKing cockpit for the Alpha King trainer will help cut student training time by providing an intuitive touchscreen primary flight display with advanced capabilities and a streamlined, shallow menu structure.
“With the xVue Touch, we can help Pipistrel deliver advanced technologies while keeping flight schools’ operational costs low,” said Gregg Cohen, president of BendixKing. “Aspiring pilots can train using sophisticated technology that’s easy to use, enabling them to get their pilot licenses in significantly less time. Plus, our advanced flight deck is simple to maintain and lightweight, saving flight schools money in the long run.”
The Rotax-powered two-set Alpha King trainer is expected to be available for purchase later this year at a price of around $130,000.
