The Beechcraft King Air family is once again being catered to by lighting geniuses, Luma Technologies. After successfully creating and installing the Lumatech line of light-emitting diodes (LED) caution and annunciator panels, Lumatech is introducing a new version for the smaller King Air’s along with an upcoming cockpit lighting system.
Lumatech Upgrades for King Air C-90’s
The LED based lighting system was created by Luma Technologies for the larger King Air’s, but they have since created a 45-station version for the King Air C-90. The Lumatech upgrade is a drop-in replacement for the older incandescent panels, making it easy to install. Here are some benefits of switching from incandescent to LED:
- more reliable panels
- reduced power consumption
- lower heat output
- better illumination
- substantial increase in light lifespan
LED Glareshield Floodlights Coming Soon
Along with the LED panel system, Luma Technologies has designed an LED cockpit lighting system. It will begin testing this month with hopes of being added to the Supplemental Type Certificate (STC) for approval in December. The cockpit lighting system is also easy to add to the aircraft’s by using existing connections. The glareshield floodlights come in three, or five light bar assemblies. The LED system gives the pilot the ability to dim the lights, or use full-bright for emergency.
The LED systems are a big step into the 21st century for these aircraft’s. The better visual perception for pilots, lowering of carbon emissions, and low maintenance make the LEDs a great fit for the aviation industry.