Cobham Avionics Unit Granted Certification Authority by FAA

Mineral Wells, TX - Cobham’s S-TEC business unit, doing business as Cobham Avionics Integrated Systems, has been authorized by the FAA as an Organization Designation Authorization (ODA) entity for Supplemental Type Certificate (STC) projects. As part of ODA, the FAA delegates an organization the authority to perform its own certification activities under FAA oversight.

This represents the second such designation for a Cobham business unit; in 2008 Chelton Flight Systems was among the first organizations in the United States to be certified under ODA.

The FAA first established the ODA program in August, 2006 with the intention of making their overall certification process more safe, effective, and efficient. ODA establishes a systems-based approach for FAA safety oversight of experienced manufacturers. These manufacturers must have considerable experience and a detailed, documented competence in part-by-part compliance with regulatory standards.

In return, by establishing and implementing the ODA program, the FAA is able to concentrate its resources on the most safety-critical areas of aviation and the development and application of new technologies.

Cobham will offer STC support to agencies that desire or need ODA services for the pursuit of their own STC. The Mineral Wells facility features a complete ODA support staff, including electrical and mechanical engineers, A&P mechanics, avionics installers, conformity inspectors, administrators, and pilots.

Said Jim Shirey, Cobham Avionics Integrated Systems’ General Manager:

“This development will allow us to improve customer service and product delivery time, while helping the FAA to continue their efforts to bring safe and innovative products to the commercial and general aviation markets much more quickly and economically.”

Cobham Synthetic Vision System Approved for Cessna 550 Business Jet

Mineral Wells, TX - Cobham’s synthetic vision system has been granted a supplemental type certificate (STC) for the Cessna 550, the first time this system has been approved for use on a transport-category aircraft by the Federal Aviation Administration.

Cobham developed the world’s first, civil-certified synthetic vision system in 2002, gaining regulatory approval for use in light airplanes and helicopters as part of the FAA Capstone program in Alaska. Since that time, Cobham’s portfolio of FAA and European certifications has increased to more than 750 types of helicopter and fixed wing aircraft, including prior approvals on the single-pilot Citation 501 and 551.

The 550 STC is configured with dual synthetic vision primary flight displays (PFD) and dual multi-function displays (MFD), each with embedded Class-A terrain awareness and warning system (TAWS), integral flight management system (FMS), and digital flight recording. Additional features include dual fiber-optic attitude gyros and dual GPS-WAAS. The system uses the aircraft’s existing RVSM air data computers.

The system provides sensor comparators and cross-side sensor switching, and interfaces with the original autopilot to give it full roll-steering capability to fly all instrument procedures hands-off, including procedure turns, holding patterns and entries, DME arcs, and missed approaches, dramatically reducing pilot workload.

Additional capabilities include TCAS-I, TCAS-II, and ADS-B display, datalink weather, both single- and dual-cue flight directors, Highway-In-The- Sky (HITS) predictive flight director, conformal runway depiction, dual DME display, and Stormscope display.

Installation of the compact, lightweight system typically results in a 100 lb. increase in useful load.

“Approval of this revolutionary system for transport-category aircraft brings tremendous capability to older, analog-equipped aircraft,” said Mike Sheehan, Vice President of Cobham Avionics. “With the recent STC for the Bell 412, Cobham now has the only synthetic vision system certified in all four regulatory classes of aircraft: large and small airplanes, and large and small helicopters.”

COBHAM, ARROW AVIATION RECEIVE HELICOPTER IFR APPROVAL FOR GLASS COCKPIT

Mineral Wells, TX - Cobham’s synthetic vision glass cockpit has been approved for single-pilot IFR operation of the Bell 412 helicopter by the Federal Aviation Administration with the granting of a supplemental type certificate to Arrow Aviation. This marks the world’s first IFR approval for a synthetic vision system in a helicopter. The Search and Rescue unit of North Slope Borough, Alaska will be the first customer to have Cobham’s electronic flight instrument system (EFIS) installed on a 412.

Arrow Aviation, the completion center responsible for installation of Cobham’s EFIS, was selected to complete the 412 retrofit based on its proven track record of successful avionics equipment installations and superior ongoing maintenance and service.

The North Slope Borough 412 performs medevac, search & rescue, and emergency missions in the rigorous environment of Alaska’s North Slope. Working across diverse coastal and inland topography, the Bell 412 uses the synthetic vision three-dimensional graphic technology to translate the terrain ahead of and around the helicopter into an intuitive, real-time visual picture, helping the pilot “see” aircraft position in relation to its surroundings regardless of darkness or weather conditions. This display reduces instrument scanning and pilot fatigue by consolidating readings of all primary flight instruments into one efficient tool, resulting in a dramatically reduced pilot workload and safer execution of flight plans and procedures.

Features of the Cobham EFIS include: advanced, four-screen glass cockpit package – two Primary Flight Displays (PFD) and two Multi-Function Displays (MFD); enhanced situational awareness via 3D Synthetic Vision; Helicopter Terrain Awareness and Warning System (HTAWS); full-function Flight Management System (FMS); Highway-In-The-Sky (HITS) Predictive Flight Director; user-definable approaches, geo-referenced hover vector with “mark-on-target” functionality; Remote Bugs Panel (RBP); IFR approved with Cat-A capability; NVG compatibility; digital flight recording; intuitive audio and visual warning and advisory systems; traffic display from TAS, TCAS-I/II, and ADS-B; integrated GPS/WAAS (Global Positioning System/Wide Area Augmentation System), and an Air Data and Attitude Heading Reference System (ADAHRS). Supported WSI Weather products include NEXRAD Weather Radar, Echo Tops, Graphical METARs, Textual METARs, Textual TAFs, Lightning, SIGMETs/AIRMETs, TFRs, and Winds/Temps aloft; ADS-B datalink display functions, including TIS-B (traffic) and FIS-B (flight information, including weather).

David Guidry, Arrow Aviation General Manager, said: “The Bell 412 is already a capable aircraft, and the addition of the Cobham EFIS make it even more so, bringing it into the 21st Century in terms of pilot interface and enhanced safety.”

FAA ANNOUNCES ODA FOR S-TEC UNIT OF COBHAM

Mineral Wells, TX - Cobham is pleased to announce that their S-TEC business unit has received FAA delegation as an ODA (Organization Designation Authorization). It's our intention to expand our Supplemental Type Certification (STC) support to agencies that desire or need ODA services for pursuit of their own STC. The Mineral Wells facility has a complete ODA support staff that includes electrical and mechanical engineers, A&P mechanics, avionics installers, conformity inspectors, administrators, and pilots. The S-TEC unit of Cobham Avionics will consider requests for autopilot and/or displays installations on a case by case basis. Interested parties should call Robert McDonnel at (817)215-7756 or Chris Becker at (817)215-7750.

2009 IDU III Flat Rate Repair Schedule

For more information, please call or email: Van B. Dardis, Director of Customer Support,
van.dardis@cobham.com, 817-215-7625

Mineral Wells, TX – S-TEC/Chelton Flight Systems, part of Cobham’s Avionics and Surveillance Division, is pleased to announce that the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has granted an amendment to STC# SA02254AK, covering Part 23, Class III and IV aircraft.

“We are always working with our current and potential customers to develop improvements to the hardware and software to enhance the performance of our FlightLogic EFIS systems,” explained Greg Plantz, Vice President Sales and Marketing, S-TEC/Chelton Flight Systems. “This amended STC grants thousands of Class III and IV aircraft operators a greater variety of installation options and system configurations, ultimately resulting in a more tailored flight management experience.”

“This amended STC not only provides increased capabilities and functionality,” he continued, “by eliminating the requirement to use a costly third-party ADAHRS, we are able to dramatically lower the system cost on new installations – that’s something every operator will appreciate.”

Plantz also pointed out that while the amended STC was earned on a Piper Cheyenne IIIA, it actually includes a wide variety of popular Part 23, Class III and IV aircraft including:

• Piston and turboprop Twin Commanders;
• Piston and turboprop 400 series twin Cessnas;
• Beechcraft King Airs;
• Piper Cheyenne IIIA and 400;
• Piaggio P-180s;
• Pilatus PC-12s;
• DeHavilland DHC-6 series,
• and many others.

Based on this STC amendment, pilots considering or currently using “Single Screen,” “2 or 3 Screen,” “Dual Screen,” or “4 or 6 Screen” Chelton FlightLogic Synthetic Vision Electronic Flight Instrument System (EFIS-SV) configurations are now approved to install the following upgrades:

• Chelton Software Version 6.0B
• Chelton Beta III GPS-WAAS
• Chelton Remote Bugs Panel (RBP)
• Spectralux NexNav GPS

Pilots flying aircraft covered by the amended STC will realize numerous benefits, including:

• Chelton’s software version 6.0B delivers over 40 end-user upgrades from version 5.0C, such as WSI weather support or ADS-B Data Link, the ability to create a holding pattern at any fix or waypoint, and vertical deviation indicator for RNAV profiles and approaches.
• Chelton’s lightweight GPS-WAAS Beta III system will meet the requirements for a primary navigation receiver for en route and approach guidance.
• Chelton’s Remote Bugs panel features dedicated controls for frequently-used functions including the autopilot, controls for selecting and setting display parameters, and a Night Vision Goggle (NVG) Mode option.
• Spectralux NexNav GPS sensor installation enables advanced Nav features such as vertical navigation (VNAV).

Boise, ID - The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has issued Supplemental Type Certificate (STC) SR01673SE-D, allowing Chelton Flight Systems’ software version 6.0B and Air Data and Attitude Heading Reference System (ADAHRS) on the Eurocopter EC120B rotorcraft.

Software version 6.0B features DO-178B Level-A certification and delivers significant rotorcraft end-user features and benefits, including:

• Class A or B HTAWS. Helicopter Terrain Awareness and Warning System detects terrain and obstacle hazards, dramatically increasing situational awareness and safety
• Support for WSI Weather. Supported products include NEXRAD Weather Radar, Echo Tops, Graphical METARs, Textual METARs, Textual TAFs, Lightning, SIGMETs/AIRMETs, TFRs, and Winds/Temps aloft
• Expanded Hover Vector. Displayed with large radar altitude scale on MFD
• ADS-B Datalink Display Functions. Includes TIS-B (traffic) and FIS-B (flight information, including weather)
• Enhanced Terrain Database. Features Shuttle Radar Topography Mission (SRTM) elevation data for near-global terrain vision

Chelton’s ADAHRS incorporates a Magnetic Sensing Unit (MSU) and separate Outside Air Temperature (OAT) Probe and employs the latest Micro-Electro-Mechanical System (MEMS) technology to provide extremely precise digital output and referencing of aircraft position rate, vector, and acceleration data. ADAHRS is:

• Reliable: DO-178B, Level A software
• Lightweight: 3-component product suite, less than 1.5 lbs
• Rugged: Meets RTCA/DO-160E environmental standards
• Compact: 2” x 2.5” x 3.9”

Said Chelton General Manager Jim Shirey: “Chelton is excited to announce the approval of this STC. We’re confident that the EC120B flight management experience will be safer and more intuitive thanks to 6.0B’s state-of-the-art features and functionality.”

Boise, ID - Further to the announcement earlier this year of the merger of Chelton Flight Systems and S-TEC, please be informed that effective August 1, 2008, Chelton Flight Systems will be relocating to S-TEC’s Mineral Wells, TX facility

From August 1st onwards, we ask that you direct all sales, technical support, accounting, and other inquiries as follows:

Chelton Flight Systems/S-TEC
One S-TEC Way
Municipal Airport
Mineral Wells, Texas 76067

Telephone: 1-817-215-7600

Fax: 1-940-325-3904

Unless otherwise directed by our purchasing department, any deliveries originally scheduled to be sent to our Boise address should be rerouted to the above address in Mineral Wells, TX. All other deliveries continue unaffected.

Thank you for your support in helping us to create the Cobham Avionics Center of Excellence!

Boise, ID - Chelton Flight Systems, part of Cobham plc’s Avionics and Surveillance Division, is pleased to announce that the European Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) has approved Chelton’s Electronic Flight Instrument System (EFIS) for use on Bell 206A, B, L-series, and 407 light single helicopters. EASA.IM. R.S.01165 is the first European certification for Synthetic Vision installation.

To achieve certification, Chelton worked closely with EASA and the United Kingdom Civilian Air Authority (UK CAA). Their combined professionalism, thoroughness, and commitment to flight safety has made it possible for hundreds of Bell 206/407 helicopters flying under EASA jurisdiction to take advantage of the numerous benefits Synthetic Vision has to offer.

Chelton’s EFIS uses 3D graphic technology to translate the terrain ahead of and around the helicopter into a simple, real-time visual picture. This helps the pilot “see” aircraft position in relation to its surroundings regardless of darkness or weather conditions. The display reduces instrument scanning and pilot fatigue by consolidating readings of several instruments into one efficient tool, resulting in safer execution of flight plans and procedures. Further enhancing situational awareness and flight safety, Chelton’s EFIS offers Highway-In-The-Sky (HITS), making it possible to fly with ILS precision to any point in the world, and Helicopter TAWS (HTAWS), which delivers visual and audio clues when terrain or obstacles present a hazard.

A certification condition is that Chelton’s newest software package, version 6.0B, be installed on the EFIS. 6.0B features DO-178B Level-A certification and significant benefits for end-users, including:

• Support for WSI Weather. Supported products include NEXRAD Weather Radar, Echo Tops, Graphical METARs, Textual METARs, Textual TAFs, Lightning, SIGMETs/AIRMETs, TFRs, and Winds/Temps aloft
• Expanded Hover Vector. Displayed with large radar altitude scale on MFD

The rotorcraft on which certification was achieved, Bell’s 206 and 407, are known worldwide for their integration of speed, performance, and maneuverability in corporate, utility, EMS, and law enforcement applications. With more than 7,000 of these two aircraft in service and over 400 on order, the 206/407 package of superior speed, payload, and range sets the standard among light single helicopters.

Of the certification, Scott Fitzgerald, Bell’s Vice President, Sales, EAME said: “We see this milestone for Chelton as a success for Bell Helicopter and for our customers. With our continued focus on modernization and safety this system will enhance our product offering and will provide another dimension to the demand for the 407 and the 206L4 in Europe”.

Boise, ID - Chelton Flight Systems, part of Cobham’s Avionics and Surveillance Division, is pleased to announce that the European Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) has approved software version 6.0B for use on the company’s Electronic Flight Information System (EFIS). European Technical Standard Order (ETSO) 210.1028 allows 6.0B deployment on hundreds of fixed- and rotary-wing aircraft within countries under EASA’s jurisdiction.

Software version 6.0B features a DO-178B Level-A certification (FAA) and over 40 significant benefits for end-users, including:

• ADS-B datalink display functions: including TIS-B (traffic) and FIS-B (flight information, including weather)
• WSI Weather: Supported products include NEXRAD Weather Radar, Echo Tops, Graphical METARs, Textual METARs, Textual TAFs, Lightning, SIGMETs/AIRMETs, TFRs, and Winds/Temps aloft
• Holding Pattern may be created at any fix or waypoint; entries are calculated automatically
• Nearest ILS Approaches: One touch activates an ILS approach, sets the inbound OBS course, and sends the ILS frequency to a remotely-tuned NAV radio
• Enhanced FMS Capability including vertical navigation (VNAV) and waypoint offsets
• Vertical Deviation Indicator for RNAV Approaches and enroute VNAV capability
• Expanded Hover Vector for Helicopters displayed with large radar altitude scale on MFD
• Autopilot Mode: Source Annunciation for use with existing legacy analog autopilots
• Shaded Relief Terrain Depiction on MFD resembling a satellite image
• TCAS-II interface and resolution advisory symbology
• Basic ADI Mode for transition and training
• FMS-Style Navigation Log for easy preview of procedures
• Dual-Sensor Support with comparators and cross-side switching

Chelton’s Electronic Flight Information System, or EFIS, includes one to four display units. The Primary Flight Display features real-time, forward-looking 3-D perspective terrain modeling anywhere in the world, with GPS/WAAS positioning, and HITS (Highway-In-The-Sky) predictive flight director guidance from takeoff to touchdown. Chelton’s autopilot interface can guide the aircraft from through DP’s and STAR’s, arc approaches, procedure turns, and even complex holding pattern entries with no pilot interaction. The integral master caution voice warning system provides a wide range of alarm and alert information that appears on the screen if any undesirable conditions arise along the flight path

Download AEA training session schedule; visit Chelton Flight Systems at AEA, Booth 601

Boise, ID - The Chelton Flight Systems Organization Designation Authorization (ODA) has approved the amendment to Supplemental Type Certificate (STC) SR02230AK-D, allowing software version 6.0B to be run on Chelton’s Synthetic Vision EFIS displays in Eurocopter models AS350 and AS355.

6.0B was TSO’d in December, 2007 and is DO-178B Level-A certified. Over 40 significant benefits are available for end-users, including:

• ADS-B datalink display functions: including TIS-B (traffic) and FIS-B (flight information, including weather)
• WSI Weather: Supported products include NEXRAD Weather Radar, Echo Tops, Graphical METARs, Textual METARs, Textual TAFs, Lightning, SIGMETs/AIRMETs, TFRs, and Winds/Temps aloft
• Holding Pattern may be created at any fix or waypoint; entries are calculated automatically
• Nearest ILS Approaches: One touch activates an ILS approach, sets the inbound OBS course, and sends the ILS frequency to a remotely-tuned NAV radio
• Enhanced FMS Capability including vertical navigation (VNAV) and waypoint offsets
• Vertical Deviation Indicator for RNAV Approaches and enroute VNAV capability
• Expanded Hover Vector for Helicopters displayed with large radar altitude scale on MFD
• Autopilot Mode: Source Annunciation for use with existing legacy analog autopilots
• Shaded Relief Terrain Depiction on MFD resembling a satellite image
• TCAS-II interface and resolution advisory symbology
• Basic ADI Mode for transition and training
• FMS-Style Navigation Log for easy preview of procedures

Says Chelton General Manager Jim Shirey: “We’re proud to have achieved this milestone with the Eurocopter models. Software 6.0B truly represents state-of-the-art functionality and will make the AS350/355 flight management experience safer and more intuitive.”

In addition to STC SR02230AK-D, 6.0B is also available for new EFIS installations or as an upgrade to existing EFIS displays under STC SA02203AK Part 23 AML (400+ fixed wing aircraft models). 6.0B will also be available for EFIS installations with Mod 1 memory module upgrade as the software is added under the STC approval.

Software 6.0B supports the architecture requirements for Part-25 airplanes and IFR helicopters, opening the door for these approvals in the second half of 2008.

Boise, ID - The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has granted Chelton Flight Systems a Technical Standard Order (TSO) for Chelton’s latest EFIS software version, 6.0B.

6.0B features a DO-178B Level-A certification and over 40 significant benefits for end-users, including:

• WSI Weather: Supported products include NEXRAD Weather Radar, Echo Tops, Graphical METARs, Textual METARs, Textual TAFs, Lightning, SIGMETs/AIRMETs, TFRs, and Winds/Temps aloft
• Holding Pattern may be created at any fix or waypoint; entries are calculated automatically
• Nearest ILS Approaches: One touch activates an ILS approach, sets the inbound OBS course, and sends the ILS frequency to a remotely-tuned NAV radio
• Enhanced FMS Capability including vertical navigation (VNAV) and waypoint offsets
• Vertical Deviation Indicator for RNAV Approaches and enroute VNAV capability
• Expanded Hover Vector for Helicopters displayed with large radar altitude scale on MFD
• Autopilot Mode: Source Annunciation for use with existing legacy analog autopilots
• Shaded Relief Terrain Depiction on MFD resembling a satellite image
• TCAS-II interface and resolution advisory symbology
• Basic ADI Mode for transition and training
• FMS-Style Navigation Log for easy preview of procedures
• Dual-Sensor Support with comparators and cross-side switching

Says Chelton General Manager Jim Shirey: “The release of 6.0B builds upon our commitment to make the EFIS as technologically advanced and user-friendly as possible. We will continue to respond to requests from our customers for features that make their flight management experience safer and more intuitive.”

6.0B software is now available

• Approved for new EFIS installations or as an upgrade to existing EFIS displays under the following STCs:
  1. Fixed Wing - STC SA02203AK Part 23 AML. Approved for 400+ aircraft models.
• 6.0B will also be available for EFIS installations with Mod 1 memory module upgrade as the software is added under the STC approval.

This release supports the architecture requirements for Part-25 airplanes and IFR helicopters, opening the door for these approvals this year.

Chelton’s Electronic Flight Information System, or EFIS, includes one to four display units. The Primary Flight Display features real-time, forward-looking 3-D perspective terrain modeling anywhere in the world, with GPS/WAAS positioning, and HITS (Highway-In-The-Sky) predictive flight director guidance from takeoff to touchdown.

Chelton’s autopilot interface can guide the aircraft from through DP’s and STAR’s, arc approaches, procedure turns, and even complex holding pattern entries with no pilot interaction. The integral master caution voice warning system provides a wide range of alarm and alert information that appears on the screen if any undesirable conditions arise along the flight path.

Boise, ID - Cobham plc, parent company of Chelton Flight Systems, is pleased to announce that it has reached agreement to purchase S-TEC Corporation from Meggitt plc for a cash consideration of US$38m on a debt and cash-free basis payable on completion. The purchase is anticipated to complete before the year end, subject to regulatory approval.

S-TEC designs, certifies, and manufactures autopilots for general aviation aircraft, ranging from small, single-engined to light commuter aircraft. Based at Mineral Wells Airport in Texas, USA, S-TEC has a workforce or 180 people, including many skilled avionics engineers who are capable of supporting the development of Cobham products.

S-TEC is an excellent technological and market fit in the development of a Cobham cockpit of avionics. OEMs increasingly expect their avionics supplier to provide an autopilot solution, with the market moving towards the inclusion of autopilots in EFIS-type displays, such as Cobham’s to reduce weight, wiring, and integration costs. S-TEC also has a strong presence in the retrofit market which Cobham can leverage, and positions with many OEMs including Adam, Cirrus, Eclipse, Piper, and Pilatus.

Allan Cook, Cobham Chief Executive said:
“S-TEC is an excellent technological and market fit in our development of a Cobham cockpit of avionics, with products from both companies certified together on more than 500 aircraft types.”

Boise, ID - Chelton Flight Systems HeliSAS Stability Augmentation System provides unparalleled safety and pilot workload reduction through enhanced stability for lighter helicopters. HeliSAS makes hands-free operations, autopilot procedures, and automatic attitude recovery possible.

HeliSAS is designed to be engaged at all times: “On” before takeoff, and “off” after landing. The “force feel” (force trim) feature enhances handling characteristics and mitigates inadvertent cyclic control inputs that could result in dangerous attitudes. The pilot may override the HeliSAS at any time with manual cyclic inputs. In cases where a pilot may lose visual reference due to limited visibility conditions, releasing the cyclic allows the helicopter to automatically return to a near-level attitude.

HeliSAS features include:

• Lightweight: Only 12.7 lbs. installed – including panel-mounted gyro
• Expandable: Stability Augmentation System (SAS) only…or SAS + full autopilot
• Easy Installation: 40 hours or less installation time

Boise, ID - Lightweight, compact, and affordable, Chelton Flight Systems Air Data and Attitude Heading Reference System (ADAHRS) is designed for both fixed- and rotary-wind aircraft, providing extremely precise digital output and referencing of aircraft position, rate, vector and acceleration data.

At less than 1.5 lbs, the compact (2” x 2.5” x 3.9”) ADAHRS 3-component suite is the only product in its price range to feature the robustness of Level-A software in an all-digital, solid-state system utilizing Micro-Electro Mechanical Systems (MEMS) in place of older-technology mechanical gyros. Mean time between failures is projected to be over 13,000 hours. The ADAHRS product suite includes a remote Outside Air Temperature (OAT) Probe and a Magnetometer Sensing Unit (MSU) in the standard KMT-112 format.

ADAHRS is certified under TSO-C4c, C6d and C106. The CFS EFIS will perform the necessary display functions so that the combination of ADAHRS and IDU will meet the requirements for TSO-C2d, C4c, C6d, C8d and C10b. The ADAHRS Module is a device that incorporates a TSO-C4c and TSO-C6d compliant AHRS, and a TSO-C106 compliant air data computer, contained in one enclosure. The ADAHRS complies with software standard RTCA/DO-178B, Level-A and environment standard RTCA/DO-160E.

Aircraft certified for Chelton Flight Systems ADAHRS include: Aerostar, American Champion, Britten-Norman, Cessna, CPAC (Commander), Extra, Found Aircraft, Grob, Helio (Helio Courier), KWAD (Mitchell), Maule, Mooney, Partenavia/Vulcanair, Pilatus, Piper, Revo, Ruschmeyer, Seastar (Thurston), Sky International (Aviat), Socata, Twin Commander, and Viking (de Havilland). Click here for a Detailed List of certified aircraft.

Boise, ID - Chelton Flight Systems HeliSAS Stability Augmentation System provides unparalleled safety and pilot workload reduction through enhanced stability for lighter helicopters. HeliSAS makes hands-free operations, autopilot procedures, and automatic attitude recovery possible.

HeliSAS is designed to be engaged at all times: “On” before takeoff, and “off” after landing. The “force feel” (force trim) feature enhances handling characteristics and mitigates inadvertent cyclic control inputs that could result in dangerous attitudes. The pilot may override the HeliSAS at any time with manual cyclic inputs. In cases where a pilot may lose visual reference due to limited visibility conditions, releasing the cyclic allows the helicopter to automatically return to a near-level attitude.

HeliSAS features include:

• Lightweight: Only 12.7 lbs. installed – including panel-mounted gyro
• Expandable: Stability Augmentation System (SAS) only…or SAS + full autopilot
• Easy Installation: 40 hours or less installation time

Boise, ID - The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has announced that Chelton Flight Systems, part of the Cobham Avionics & Surveillance Division, has been certified under the Organization Designation Authorization (ODA) program for Supplemental Type Certificate (STC) projects. Under ODA, the FAA delegates an organization the authority to perform its own certification activities under FAA oversight.

The FAA first established the ODA program in August, 2006 with the intention of making their overall certification process more safe, effective, and efficient. ODA establishes a systems-based approach for FAA safety oversight of experienced manufacturers. These manufacturers must have considerable experience and a detailed, documented competence in part-by-part compliance with regulatory standards.

In return, by establishing and implementing the ODA program the FAA is able to concentrate its resources on the most safety-critical areas of aviation and the development and application of new technologies.

As an STC ODA, Chelton Flight Systems is now eligible to apply to the FAA for responsibility for multiple aspects of future certification projects, minimizing the time and expense required for any of these activities. Said Jim Shirey, Chelton’s General Manager:

For additional information about Chelton's new ODA Certification, contact Rob Creighton at (208) 389-9959 or E-mail.

Boise, ID - Keystone Helicopter Corporation has been granted an STC permitting installation of a Chelton Flight Systems' Synthetic Vision EFIS system in Bell 427s. The STC will be available in a standard, two-screen system with a Primary Flight Display (PFD) and Multi-Function Display (MFD).

The Chelton EFIS uses 3D graphic technology to translate the terrain ahead of and around the helicopter into a simple real-time visual picture. This helps the pilot "see" aircraft position in relation to its surroundings regardless of darkness or weather conditions. This display reduces instrument scanning and pilot fatigue by consolidating readings of several instruments into one efficient tool resulting in safer execution of flight plans and procedures. Each EFIS features primary flight instruments, GPS (Global Positioning System) with WAAS (Wide Area Augmentation System), moving map, terrain display, optional weather and traffic display, fuel Totalizer, and easy push-button flight planning. The system also fulfills the FAA's TAWS (Terrain Awareness Warning System) mandate for fixed-wing turbine aircraft, including Class A and B Helicopter TAWS (H-TAWS). The system is compatible with NVG equipment.

Chelton's EFIS is also STCd for: Bell 204, 205, 206, 210, and 407; Eurocopter AS 350/355, EC 120B; and MD520N. Coming soon, MD902.

For additional information about Keystone Helicopter Corporation, visit www.keystonehelicopter.com.

VLJ leader and established avionics suppliers team up to advance the revolutionary Eclipse 500

 ALBUQUERQUE, NM - March 5, 2007 - Eclipse Aviation, manufacturer of the world's first very light jet (VLJ), and leading avionics suppliers Innovative Solutions & Support, Inc. (IS&S), Chelton Flight Systems, Garmin International, Honeywell, PS Engineering, Inc., today announced a partnership to produce "Avio NG," the next-generation Avio system for the Eclipse 500. Avio NG, an improved version of the Eclipse 500's Avio Total Aircraft Integration system, has been in development for many months and is scheduled for production and delivery this summer. In keeping with a customer-centric focus, Eclipse will retrofit all Eclipse 500 aircraft with Avio NG by the end of 2007, ensuring a homogeneous Eclipse 500 fleet. 

Avio NG delivers significant enhancements providing next generation digital avionics with demonstrated airline reliability and systems capability unparalleled in the very light jet segment. These enhancements include:

• Improved reliability achieved through: 
  o EFIS software that has been similarly 
     deployed as level A software 
  o Higher Mean Time Between Failure (MTBF) 
     rates for Primary Flight Display (PFD) and 
     Multi-function Display (MFD) hardware 
  o Use of hardware systems that have been used 
     primarily in Part 25 airplanes 
  o Improved systems architecture and design

• 768 x 1024 resolution PFD displays and 1440 x 900 resolution MFD display 

• Enhanced digital audio and Communication Navigation System (CNS) functionality

• Improved growth capability for future "next generation" avionics functionality 

"We are excited to partner with such highly-reputable avionics companies by our side," said Vern Raburn, president and CEO of Eclipse Aviation. "These suppliers have proven to be great partners to premier companies in almost every segment of aviation. Their established track records and superior capabilities will allow us to provide our customers with the Avio we always promised. We are looking forward to a long and successful relationship with each company." 

The proven, air transport-quality components provided by these suppliers will enable Eclipse Aviation to deliver on its promise to provide unmatched avionics functionality that significantly reduces pilot workload by simplifying tasks, generating useful information, managing systems and assisting with troubleshooting. Changes to the Avio user interface will be minimal, providing customers, pilots and mechanics with a seamless transition that will require little to no new training. 

Eclipse Aviation will continue to serve as the systems integrator for the overall Avio NG system, but has employed a best-of-breed strategy for the Avio NG partners. Each supplier has deep expertise in the specific Eclipse 500 component they will provide. 

Replacing the Avidyne displays, IS&S will provide hardware and select software for the Eclipse 500 PFDs and MFD for Avio NG. IS&S is a high-performance international avionics supplier to civil, military, business and commercial markets. Prior major contracts awarded to IS&S have included the flat panel display systems for the Boeing B737, B757, B747 and B767; legacy Cessna Citation aircraft; and the Pilatus PC-12. 

IS&S chairman and CEO Geoffrey Hedrick stated "IS&S is honored to be part of the revolutionary Eclipse 500 program. We look forward to delivering reliable and cost effective displays to Eclipse Aviation, allowing the Avio Total Aircraft Integration concept to become a reality on the Eclipse 500." 

Additional new suppliers for Avio NG are: 
Chelton Flight Systems - Avio NG will also include a flight management system (FMS) provided by Chelton Flight Systems. This FMS has been proven in multiple aircraft installations starting more than 6 years ago and now has flight guidance algorithms for all of the ARINC 424 published path segments. The core of the FMS has been written and certified to level A standards in prior releases. The guidance functionality provided includes GPS-based lateral aircraft control, along with vertical navigation (VNAV). The Chelton FMS will be integrated into Avio NG, presenting the pilot with a consistent user interface. This full-featured RTCA/DO-229C capable flight management system includes capability to create, save, store, recall, reverse, and edit flight plans by waypoint or airway, the user will be able to create custom waypoints, add or delete waypoints from an active route, specify parallel track operation, and more. 

Garmin International - Dual remote mounted Mode S Enhanced Surveillance transponders are provided by Garmin's GTX 33 and GTX 33D. These IFR- certified, Level 2, solid-state Mode S transponders offer expanded capability including optional diversity capability. 

Honeywell - Avio NG uses the new Honeywell Primus Apex KTR 2280 Multi Mode Digital Radios (MMDR), consisting of digital VHF Navigation receivers (VOR, LOC, GS), and an optional ADF receiver. Each MMDR includes one transmitter and six receivers, capable of 8.33/25 kHz channel spacing operation and simultaneous monitoring of two VHF communication frequencies. The KTR 2280 is seamlessly integrated into Avio NG, providing users with radio management capability through the PFDs and MFD. Honeywell also provides safety sensors for Avio NG including the industry standard RDR 2000 Weather Radar System and the optional KGP 560 Terrain Awareness System (TAWS). 

PS Engineering - The digitally controlled audio system for Avio NG is provided using PS Engineering's PMA500 remote audio control system. The PMA500 interfaces with Avio NG for radio and navigation audio selection, intercom and mode control, and has an integrated marker beacon receiver. The audio control panel includes split transmit capability, hi-fi stereo in-flight entertainment inputs, and IntelliVOX®, a patented squelch protocol that completely eliminates manual intercom squelch, adjusting dynamically to cockpit sound conditions. 

About Avio NG Designed by Eclipse Aviation exclusively for the Eclipse 500, Avio NG provides Total Aircraft Integration through integral, redundant computer systems and advanced data and power distribution systems. Avio NG applies integration technology to the entire aircraft, including avionics, engine operation, fuel system, flaps, landing gear, cabin pressure and temperature. The cockpit features two PFDs and one MFD, which are controlled by selection keys and knobs on the displays or by a keyboard at the pilot position. The PFD and MFD provide the pilot with high-resolution display of all flight parameters, engine and system performance data, and total system control. 

About Eclipse Aviation Eclipse Aviation, manufacturer of the world's first very light jet, is in the business of designing, certifying and producing modern, affordable jet aircraft that will revolutionize the transportation market. The company is applying advanced electronics systems, manufacturing and business practices to produce aircraft that cost half that of today's small jet aircraft, will be significantly safer and easier to operate than those of today, and have the lowest cost of ownership ever achieved in a jet aircraft. The goal of Eclipse is to bring the word "personal" into aviation, making it possible for commercial air passengers to move directly between cities on a quick, affordable and convenient basis. It will also allow pilot owners to enter the world of jet-powered aviation. Contact Eclipse at http://www.eclipseaviation.com.

Boise Idaho, (November, 10 2006) – Chelton Flight Systems, part of the Cobham Avionics and Surveillance Division has been granted FAA STC (Supplemental Type Certificate) approval of the Chelton Synthetic Vision EFIS (Electronic Flight Instrument System) in the Eurocopter EC 120B Helicopter. The STC (# SR01673SE) was developed in conjunction with Hillsboro Aviation Inc, and will be available in a standard two screen system with a Primary Flight Display (PDF) and a Multifunction Flight Display (MFD) and an optional three screen system with one PFD and two MFDs.   

“This approval will supplement our existing family of STC's on the Eurocopter AS 350/355 helicopters” said David Thomas, Chelton’s Helicopter Program Director. “We endeavor to support Eurocopter by giving their customers the ability to install the Chelton Flight System into one of their best selling product lines, the EC 120B.” 

The test aircraft was installed with the three screen configuration. Jeff Werblun, a law enforcement pilot from Sacramento , California piloted the EC 120B in all the required test flights. “I fly an EC 120B full time. This is the first time I’ve ever flown a glass panel, and I wish I had this EFIS installed in our helicopter,” Werblun said. “I was not familiar with the Oregon airports or the terrain, and I was able to easily complete all the required maneuvers. All the information you need is on the screen. The terrain awareness and the traffic alerts enhance situational awareness and increase flight safety. I know it is a VFR system, but if you encountered inadvertent IMC, you could plot a safe course in with the Highway in the Sky.”   

The Chelton EFIS uses 3D graphic technology to translate the terrain ahead of and around the helicopter into a simple real-time visual picture. This helps the pilot “see” aircraft position in relation to the surroundings regardless of darkness or weather conditions. Each EFIS features primary flight instruments, GPS (Global Positioning System) with WAAS (Wide Area Augmentation System), moving map, terrain display, optional weather and traffic display, fuel totalizer, and easy push-button flight planning. The system also fulfills the FAA TAWS (Terrain Awareness Warning System) mandate for fixed wing turbine aircraft and is fully compatible with night vision goggle equipment.     

Hillsboro Aviation Inc is the exclusive Chelton Flight Systems dealer for helicopter systems on the west coast and an authorized partner for after-market installations in airplanes. Originally founded as Hillsboro Helicopters in 1980, Hillsboro Aviation maintains a fleet of 50 aircraft and employs over 120 people. Hillsboro Aviation is the exclusive Independent Bell Helicopter Representative for 16 western US states.   

Chelton Flight Systems, part of the Cobham Avionics and Surveillance Division, is the manufacturer of the world’s first FAA-certified synthetic vision EFIS, which is now STCd on over 740 airplane and helicopter models. Chelton Flight Systems’ parent company is Cobham plc. 

Cobham plc is an international company engaged in the development, delivery and support of advanced aerospace and defence systems in the air, on land, at sea and in space. The company has five technology divisions and one service division which collectively specialise in the provision of components, sub-systems and services to keep people safe, improve communications and enhance the performance of platforms.

The twin engine MD Explorer is currently flying with a four screen Chelton EFIS.

Chelton Flight Systems training syllabus and related materials have been accepted by the FAA/Industry Training Standards (FITS) Group.

The Virgin Atlantic GlobalFlyer and its Chelton avionics has been retired to the Smithsonian National Air and Space museum in Washington D.C.

TEMPE, Ariz., April 30, 2006 - Landmark Aviation announced today that it has equipped and delivered its first M28 SkyTruck utility aircraft with the Chelton Flight Systems FlightLogic Synthetic Vision Electronic Flight Instrumentation System (EFIS).
"The FlightLogic EFIS is a complete flight navigation instrumentation system that interfaces the remote-mounted AHRS (Attitude Heading Reference System), air data computer, global positioning system and Wide Area Augmentation System (WAAS) receiver as well as existing VHF navigation equipment," said Mike Anderson, Director of Avionics, Landmark Aviation. "The system has its own TAWS (Terrain Awareness and Warning System)."

"Landmark is pleased to deliver this SkyTruck aircraft equipped with a leading edge avionics system that provides optimal situational awareness, navigation, and 'moving maps' that are fully integrated into the cockpit displays," Anderson said. "The Chelton system, which has its own display in the cockpit, enhances aircraft safety by improving situational awareness and reducing pilot workload."
The work was performed at Landmark's Roanoke, Va., operation. Landmark's Roanoke facility is a full service fixed base operation (FBO), with avionics maintenance and installation capability. The operation also offers120,000 square feet of hangar space and full FBO amenities.

In recent months, Landmark's Roanoke facility has installed several other Chelton Flight Systems Synthetic Vision EFIS. The operation installed the first Chelton "Dual Sensor" 4-Tube SV-EFIS System as part of a project with Chelton to amend a current Supplemental Type Certificate (STC) for the Part 23 Large/Commuter Class Aircraft. The M28 Skytruck project is the second system to include the same dual sensor architecture. The primary flight display features 3-D perspective terrain modeling with real time GPS/WAAS positioning, and 'highway-in-the-sky' predictive flight director guidance from takeoff to touchdown.

FlightLogic supports optional traffic and weather systems to create a single, integrated console for all flight deck operations. This FAA-certified EFIS, designed to replace primary flight instruments, and mechanical gyros and compass systems, provides innovative technology and functionality that delivers new situational awareness and ground breaking automated flight management capabilities.

The FlightLogic EFIS combines advanced head-up display (HUD) symbology with real-time, forward-looking three dimensional terrain to create an innovative primary flight display. The result is enhanced situational awareness, which improves flight safety by dramatically reducing pilot workload.

Chelton's autopilot interface can guide the aircraft through DPs (Departure Procedures) and STARs (Standard Terminal Arrival Routes), arc approaches, procedure turns, and even complex holding pattern entries with no pilot interaction. The integral master caution voice warning system provides a wide range of alarm and alert information that also appears on the screen for undesirable conditions that may arise during the flight.

The Chelton system currently has Technical Standard Order (TSO) and Supplemental Type Certificate (STC) for installation on more than 740 aircraft.

The M28 Skytruck, suited for passenger and/or cargo transportation, is designed for multiple-mission usage, and is available for different cargo aircraft applications. The aircraft is sold throughout the world.

Additional information about Landmark Aviation is available at www.LandmarkAviation.com. Additional information about Chelton Flight Systems is available at www.cheltonflightsystems.com.

Landmark Aviation, formerly known as Garrett/Piedmont Hawthorne/Associated, is one of North America's largest providers of comprehensive services for the business aviation industry. With 44 locations in North America, the company offers a full range of fixed base operations; maintenance, repair and overhaul; aircraft charter, sales and management; and large aircraft completions. Landmark Aviation is headquartered in Tempe, Ariz. Landmark Aviation is a portfolio company of The Carlyle Group.

NEW BELL 210 GETS CHELTON FLIGHT SYSTEMS EFIS