Textron Aviation announced that starting from 2024, its turboprops Beechcraft King Air 260 and 360 will come standard equipped with CoolView windows, which minimize heat in the cabin, providing greater comfort and better interior cooling response.
The CoolView windows, manufactured by the company Lee Aerospace, have a metallic inner layer that restricts the entry of infrared light, thus providing a cooler environment and enhancing comfort while the aircraft is on the ground.
Lannie O’Bannion, Senior Vice President of Sales and Flight Operations at Textron said, «The incorporation of CoolView windows is part of the continuous improvement of our aircraft, a symbol of the commitment we’ve made to our customers, offering renewed experiences for owners, pilots, and passengers.»
In addition to having a protective tint against unwanted reflections, abrupt sunlight and glare, CoolView windows also have an anti-icing effect on the glass, a feature that is particularly valued on long flights. This system, in conjunction with ground air conditioning, provides a pleasant environment regardless of the weather conditions outside.
Independent testing of CoolView confirms:
- Cooler cabin temperatures
- Reduces IR radiation (62% or more)
- Reduces glare
- Reduces pilot fatigue
- Preserves the aircraft’s interior, protecting upholstery, lining, and trims.
Another addition to the King Air 360/360ER/260 is the AutoThrottle ThrustSense from Innovative Solutions & Support (IS&S). This device automatically manages the power provided by the engines at all phases of flight. It also features digital pressurization, achieving a certified ceiling of 35,000 feet. Lastly, the addition of the Collins Multi-Scan RTA-4112 weather radar is worth noting.
Those users who wish to equip their aircraft with CoolView windows can do so at the Textron Aviation Service Centers or purchase them exclusively from the Textron Aviation parts website.
