Raytheon has renamed the Beechcraft Baron to coincide with its upgraded avionics system. Formerly the Baron 58, the aircraft is now formally know as the Baron G58 – a clear reference to the Garmin G1000 integrated avionics suite, which is now fitted as standard equipment.

To mark the G58 from its predecessors, it will feature new paint schemes and logo designs.

“Our customers are very interested in the integrated capabilities of the Garmin G1000 upgrades, as evidenced by increased orders,” said Beechcraft president and general manager Randy Groom. Since the announcement of the avionics update, Raytheon has steadily been filling its order books for the upgraded Beechcraft Barons.

The G1000 system has been designed to reduce pilot work load, provide improved situational awareness and increase functionality. It features Garmin’s GFC 700 autopilot system, GWX68 129 colour weather radar, a solid-state altitude and heading reference system, integrated Mode S transponder and Terrain Awareness and Warning System (TAWS).

The Baron G58 is currently undergoing FAA certification, which is expected to be completed this year and followed by multiple international certifications. To date, Beechcraft has built more than 7,000 six-seat Barons.