Aviat Aircraft now offers the Garmin G500 panel mount, which provides moving map displays, artificial horizon and information about true airspeed, rate of climb, winds aloft, altitude and heading. The unit can be linked into most autopilot systems.
It is possible to upgrade the G500 over time so that it might eventually have all the systems available in a G600, company officials said. One of the first add-ons might be Synthetic Vision Technology (SVT) which brings a 3-D virtual reality into the system giving a perspective view of enroute terrain features below the aircraft. Other options include the GWX68, which provides on-board weather radar functionality; the GDL69/69A series receiver that provides weather alerting and NEXRAD coverage for the U.S. and most of Canada, via XM satellite datalink. The option also permits tuning into 170 channels of XM Radio inflight (a subscription is required). By adding a GTX330 Mode S transponder, pilots can keep track of other aircraft in their vicinity.
Consumers ordering a new Husky can specify their desire to take delivery with a new G600 or G500. The G500 will save owners about $17,250 over the G600, Aviat officials note.
“The G500 offers Husky pilots an affordable glass cockpit that will enhance the safety and enjoyment of virtually any kind of cross country flying,” said Stu Horn, president. “Now pilots can wander anywhere they want in the back country and not worry about getting lost.”
For more information: AviatAircraft.com or 307-885-3151.
