Honeywell’s new FMS 6.1 software upgrade has been approved by the FAA for installation in approximately 600 older business jets, including the Falcon 900B, Hawker 800XP, and Challenger 601. The FAA’s technical standard order (TSO) allows the software to be installed in airplane’s having Honeywell’s FMZ-2000 flight management system (FMS). Other candidate airplanes using the FMZ-2000 are Bombardier’s Global Express, Gulfstream’s G-IV and G-V, the Falcon 900EX, Cessna’s Citation X, and Embraer’s Legacy 600/650 airplanes.
The FMS 6.1 upgrade will bring these airplanes into the modern era by providing the capability to perform Wide Area Augmentation System-Localizer Performance with Vertical Guidance (WAAS-LPV) approaches, as well as comply with the required navigation performance (RNP) accuracies set down in the upcoming Future Air Navigation System (FANS) rules.
“Pilots now have the access to flight management system software which will help to meet the emerging air traffic management needs,” said Rob Wilson, Honeywell’s president of business and general aviation. “Honeywell’s 6.1 version of the FMS software enables more than 2,000 LPV and close to 200 RNP-SAAR [Special Aircraft and Aircrew Authorization Required] approaches to fly higher accuracy paths to lower minimums during inclement weather, and provide conformity for landings in congested airspace and difficult terrain. With this upgrade, more direct approaches are available to the autopilot, saving time and fuel.”
Related Articles
