The Cessna Citation CJ1 is a worthy light jet for a modernization program and that’s exactly what Garmin had in mind when it set out to certify its retrofit avionics package for the airplane, which actually started with an STC for the Citation CJ2. Now with FAA STC approval for installation in the CJ1, the major portion of the Garmin retrofit avionics includes the G600 TXi displays, the GFC 600 autopilot system and the GTN Xi series navigators. Part of the appeal of the extensive upgrade is that the interface caters to single-pilot ops.
In the CJ1, the upgrade includes the GI 275 standby flight instrument on the pilot’s panel, with an option for an additional instrument on the copilot’s panel. There’s plenty of failsafe since the GI 275 is available with Garmin SVT (synthetic vision) and seamlessly integrates with the primary flight displays to sync heading, altimeter, airspeed and altitude selections. The backstop goes one step higher since the pilot’s side PFD and each GI 275 can operate on the aircraft’s emergency electrical bus.
The TXi Engine Indication System (EIS) will replace the legacy EIS solution and now has a newly refined gauge layout and user interface. EIS-generated or user-selected N1 targets for takeoff, go-around and max continuous thrust settings are integrated and displayed on the TXi EIS. N1 reference bugs, which take into account engine and anti-ice status, as well as outside air temperature, are computed automatically and integrated into the TXi EIS display.
There’s also Emergency Descent Mode (EDM). If there’s a loss of cabin pressurization, EDM can automatically descend the aircraft to a preset altitude without pilot intervention. Garmin’s GWX 8000 weather radar is also part of the package and displays returns with 16 colors, plus hail and lightning prediction, turbulence detection and advanced ground clutter suppression. The weather radar integrates with TXi flight displays and GTN 750Xi navigators.
The CJ1 retrofit program also includes an FAA Data Comm transceiver for text-based communications with air traffic control. This enables departure clearances at over 60 airports, as well as enroute clearances and frequency changes at all U.S. enroute air traffic control centers while flying above 16,000 feet in the United States.
The upgrade is sizable modernization over the CJ1’s stock avionics. There’s the GMA 35C audio panel with audio processing, auto squelch, 3D audio and Bluetooth. The GTX 345R transponder handles the ADS-B Out capability with optional antenna diversity, plus it has ADS-B In weather and traffic. Visit www.garmin.com for more on the program.
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