The operator of a Falcon 900B recently left Duncan Aviation's MRO location in Battle Creek, Michigan, after extensive avionics upgrades, a 2C inspection and an interior refurbishment. The owner opted to upgrade to the Universal Avionics InSight light display system, replacing the obsolete CRT equipment with bright, crisp displays that provide cutting-edge, 3D graphics for the SVS (Synthetic Vision System), weather, terrain and traffic systems.

“The new Universal InSight is a fantastic option for customers with ageing avionics and no path for future enhancements,” says senior avionics sales rep Jeff Simmons. “This upgrade gives a more than 30 year old aircraft a flight deck that incorporates the latest safety features and capabilities found on new production aircraft.”

These upgrades increase the pilots' situational awareness, which in turn increases the safety and peace of mind for everyone aboard the aircraft.

While adding to the safety and efficiency of the aircraft, upgrading to the Universal Avionics InSight retained the NZ-2000 flight management system and also created a pathway for future enhancement for NextGen and Single European Sky ATM Research (SESAR) systems. The lighter, more efficient flight deck also removed more than 250 pounds of obsolete avionics equipment and wires from the nose of the aircraft, adding fuel savings and lower operating costs to the list of benefits from this upgrade.

The owner also opted to install a new Alto Aviation Cadence cabin management system (CMS), which will provide passengers with streamlined controls in the cabin. The new switches sport a contemporary look that complements the aesthetic improvements the owner was striving for throughout the all-new interior. The Cadence CMS includes a high definition multimedia interface (HDMI) port, Bluetooth interface and accessible USB charging ports, making it easier for passengers to access content from their own carry-on devices during the flight.

“Although seen for its entertainment features, a CMS is truly that; a cabin management system. It controls all of your cabin functionality from the galley to the lav, while also offering control of the entertainment. Alto Cadence allows customers to upgrade from their non-supported CMS to a cost-effective solution that keeps operation simple and stylish,” explains Simmons.

Duncan Aviation previously completed an InSight flight deck retrofit upgrade in a Citation VII; there are now 10 Citation VII aircraft operating with the upgraded InSight suite. Eight Falcon 900Bs are now flying with InSight with three more are currently in the process of being upgraded.