UA Plans To Revamp Passenger Plane Donated by Tyson

A Beechcraft King Air B200 turboprop airplane, the same model of plane as the one donated to the University of Arkansas by Tyson Foods.

The nine-passenger turboprop plane that Tyson Foods Inc. of Springdale donated to the University of Arkansas is getting a makeover.

The university is requesting bids to refurbish the 1989 King Air B200 with upgrades to several pieces of equipment, including its avionics, and get a fresh paint job. The total cost of the project has not yet been determined, Laura Jacobs, the university’s spokesman, said in an email.

The university is also seeking a complete renovation of the interior of the plane, including new laminate, headrests and cockpit seats covered by sheepskin. All proposals for the work are due by June 30.

Jacobs said the plane is used to take administrators, faculty and staff “to meetings involving fundraising, intercollegiate athletics, student recruitment, professional meetings and special events.”

Tyson donated the plane in 2003 after one owned by the Razorback Foundation and used by the university was damaged during a flight. At the time, the Tyson plane was estimated to be worth $1.8 million.