The first of two 1980s-era Fairchild C-26 Metroliner twin turboprops modernized with a Universal Avionics (Stand U72) cockpit has been delivered to an undisclosed customer. The new avionics suite includes three EFI-890R advanced flight displays, dual UNS-1Fw multi-mission management systems with four-inch flat panel control display units and a terrain awareness and warning system. The upgrade was fitted by Worldwide Aircraft Services in association with W4 Limited.

“Commercial derivative aircraft such as the C-26 provide an important special mission capability to government and military users both in the U.S. and our partner nations,” said Bob Sanchez, Universal Avionics’s military and government program development manager. “The avionics modernizations that were accomplished on these aircraft allow the C-26 to meet all of its critical mission tasking in a safe, efficient and cost effective manner, while at the same time eliminating equipment obsolescence issues on these aircraft.”

The package will be available under an FAA supplemental type certificate expected to be issued in the third quarter of 2016. This will cover Fairchild SA227 and C-26 aircraft.