Garmin added several new features and optional equipment for G1000-equipped 200- and 300-series King Airs that minimize pilot workload, offer additional NextGen capabilities and provide a number of operational benefits. These new features are now available as a free software update for owners and operators of G1000-equipped King Airs.

New features include user-defined holding patterns and several NextGen components. The user-defined holding patterns can be created over an existing fix in the navigation database or user-defined waypoint, making it easier to do unpublished holds or those assigned by air traffic control. The NextGen enhancements include barometric vertical navigation (Baro-Vnav) approach capability and required navigation performance (RNP) capability that includes the ability to fly procedures with radius-to-fix segments. The improvements also make the system ADS-B out compliant.

Meanwhile, the optional GRS 7800 AHRS enables free-gyro mode for G1000-equipped King Airs to expand the authorized area of operation up to North 84 degrees latitude. An optional GTS 8000 traffic system and GTX 3000 transponder make a Change 7.1-compliant Tcas II/Acas II system that also meets the ADS-B out standards. The optional GRA 5500 radar altimeter also supports the Tcas II/Acas II solution for King Airs lacking an existing compatible radar altimeter. Other options include the GWX 70 solid-state weather radar and a search-and-rescue package.