The U.S. Army has selected Innovative Solutions & Support (IS&S) to provide its ThrustSense autothrottle system for the Army’s C-12 (King Air B200) twin turboprops equipped with Collins Pro Line 21 avionics. The retrofit includes an IS&S Integrated Standby Unit (ISU) that also incorporates the autothrottle control software and interface.
ThrustSense autothrottles not only compute and adjust power levels but also prevent exceedance of engine limitations, including overtorque and overtemperature. They also help pilots by preventing overspeed or underspeed conditions, as well as maintaining optimal descent speeds and assisting with stabilized approaches. In the King Air, ThrustSense autothrottles automatically reduce power during an engine-out situation to help the pilot maintain directional control.
Installation of the IS&S autothrottle includes the ISU, which is also a standby instrument, and the upgraded throttle quadrant, which requires no structural modifications.
“With the King Air’s versatility across a broad range of missions, operators are increasingly focused on improving operational efficiency and reducing crew workload,” said Larry Riddle, IS&S v-p of sales and marketing. “ThrustSense is a perfect example of how IS&S is leading the way in cockpit automation, enhancing both safety and performance.”
ThrustSense autothrottles are also available for the Pilatus PC-12, and they are standard equipment on new Beechcraft King Air 260 and 360 models.