The FAA has given STC approval to PWI for its B200/250 King Air window LED upgrade. The upgrade is designed to create a more contemporary feeling cabin, as well as a quieter cabin as it does not generate a buzzing noise – an issue with some current lighting systems. The upgrade provides 100,000 hours of life as well as a claimed 33% weight saving compared with a fluorescent system. PWI also claims the upgrade requires 50% less measured operating current, eliminates the high voltage associated with fluorescent lighting, and has lower ongoing maintenance requirements.
The FAA has already given STC approval for a similar LED upgrade for use in the King Air 90, King Air 100 and King Air 200 model aircraft, and the B200/250 now makes the LED upgrade available for all King Air models.
“We’ve been waiting a long time for this certification,” said Robi Lorik, president and CEO of PWI. “I’m happy to say that we have the parts ready to ship right now. Just send us the orders.”
The order book could look healthy, as more than 6,000 B200 and 250 King Air aircraft have been built since production started in the late 1970’s and early ‘80s.
“This upgrade completely rejuvenates and refreshes the interior of the B200/250. Nobody likes sitting in a dated aircraft,” added Lorik. “The King Air B200/250 are first-rate aircraft. This upgrade provides first-rate lighting that owners of other models of King Air aircraft have already been enjoying.”
