R9:

For the R9 system, we are actually quite close.   We have completed all company flight test for the R9 and PA32 aircraft and will be re-locating the test aircraft back up to MA in the next week or so in preparation for the final FAA flight evaluation  When that FAA flight evaluation is complete, we'll submit the final paperwork package.   That will cover pre-Entegra equipped PA32s with STec 55x autopilots.

Within a few months of completing that, we will add Entegra equipped Saratogas to that STC.

DFC90/100:

We have also flown the DFC90/100 system on PA32s and have a software model for that type.   Autopilots are on a separate STC and therefore we have to start that project with the FAA.

The good news is that we have no more software development to do on the PA32 autopilot.  The other good news is that we have several volunteer aircraft with the right configuration to use as cert platforms.  And the third piece of good news is that we only have to demonstrate one configuration (Aspen or Avidyne  PFD - DFC90 or R9 - DFC100) and the other comes comes for free on the STC.

The not-quite-as-good news is that we don't have a specific schedule for completing the DFC cert on the PA32.  We are trying to find a time to fit it in between our other IOUs on the Barons, Bonanzas, Avidyne servos and Century servo support.

I will be sure to provide an update on this thread when that status changes.

1. When do you expect the R9 upgrade will be available for the PA32?

2. Will the upgrade be available only to replace an earlier Avidyne system, or will it be available for a plane with steam gauges, and, if so, what would be the price difference? I can purchase a considerably cheaper slightly older 6X with steam guages if that could be upgraded for a similar cost.

3. What other avionics should I look for in a plane to work well with R9 (such as autopilots, GPS, etc)?

P.S. I would love to be an early adopter of such an upgrade but need to know the best plane to buy.

Any chance of an STC for PA28? There are a lot larger, big engine Cherokees that are solid long range IFR aircraft, and could really benefit from a DFC90.

In particular one PA28-236.  ;-)

* Orest

1.  Too gun shy to estimate.  We've been working on this one for a long time.   The FAA has concluded all their flying in the R9 Saratoga but they have a few issues that we're trying to work through. 

2.  When it does get approved, it will apply to steam gauge Saratogas for sure.    From our perspective, there is no price difference for the Avidyne gear.

3.  I think the most important one would be a STec 55X autopilot.  That will make the transition the easiest.

I know Dave Featherston at NexAir Avionics in Mansfield MA has some strong thoughts on best airplanes and configurations for Saratoga R9 upgrades when the time is right.

We agree the PA28 family is a good candidate airplane for the DFC90 autopilot.  We have great familiarity with those airplanes since a number of the later model variants have Avidyne Entegra displays in them.

So yes, there is a chance of the DFC90 for those birds.

 

Still in the plans but no active program right now due to internal prioritization.   Not clear when we'll take it over the finish line for the Saratoga.

 

 

2013: new paint