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Oshkosh Review
The editor’s briefing in Twin & Turbine’s August 2023 issue focused on the history of EAA’s AirVenture in Os- hkosh, WI. Since the content for that issue had to go to press prior to the event, I thought I would recap what I saw in Oshkosh here. There was a lot of new information, especially for us purveyors of speedy twins and turbine- powered machines.
Right out of the gate, McCauley Propeller Systems, a Textron Aviation company, announced certification on its new C780 four-blade propeller system for the Beech- craft King Air B300 series. For operators, the new props save weight, increase performance and make the plane quieter. McCauley is also celebrating 85 years since it was founded in 1938.
But wait, that wasn’t all the news out of our favorite Wichita airplane maker. The Cessna Beechcraft Denali (yes, the United States has mountains, too) made its avia- tion show debut. Lannie O’Bannion, senior vice president of sales and flight operations, said, “Beechcraft turboprops are renowned for their versatility and reliability, and I’m thrilled to unveil the newest member of the legendary product family to the world.”
Editor’s Briefing
by Lance Phillips
It was pretty hot during AirVenture, too, so Textron Avia- tion’s next announcement was a welcome one for many King Air 260 and 360 buyers. Beginning in 2024, all new King Air aircraft will be equipped with Lee Aerospace’s new CoolView windows. The CoolView windows feature a frost pane with an integrated window tint. This advanced design enhances visibility while reducing unwanted sunlight and glare, creating a pleasant and visually ap- pealing cabin atmosphere for passengers and crew. The frost pane also helps reduce or eliminate unwanted ice buildup during long flights.
2 • TWIN & TURBINE / October 2023
Industry Insights, farther back in this issue, focuses on some of the updates out of Vero Beach, Florida, Piper’s home base. I won’t spoil the fun here, but you’ll read about some M600 upgrades that will enhance ownership.
Closer to home, we had some updates from the Malibu M-Class Owners and Pilots Association (MMOPA) announc- ing a rebranding to the Piper M-Class Owners and Pilots Association (PMOPA). Founded in 1998, the association is a not-for-profit organization dedicated to the interests and safety of owners and pilots worldwide who fly PA-46 derivative (Malibu, Mirage, Meridian, M-Class, JetPROP and Matrix) aircraft serving over 1,300 members.
“We have taken great leaps in the last year in grow- ing and expanding the influence of the association, and including the manufacturer in our name was the logical next step,” said John Granmayeh, PMOPA President of the Board of Directors. “Piper Aircraft is the remark- able company responsible for creating the airplanes our members love flying. Mike Nichols, CAM, CAE, and chief executive officer of PMOPA, agreed, saying, “Our members are passionate about the aircraft they fly and are loyal to the Piper brand, which has a rich and storied history