The FAA cleared the way for pilots flying with the Aspen Avionics Evolution 1000 Pro MAX primary flight display to integrate it with Garmin's GFC 600 digital autopilot, and other avionics.
The Albuquerque, New Mexico, avionics firm known for delivering high-performance systems at lower price points announced February 2 that the $1,995 software unlock package is now available through authorized dealers to enable GFC 600 integration.
Aspen also announced technical standard order approval for the Evolution E5 dual electronic flight instrument.
"Aspen's Pro MAX PFD coupled with the Garmin [GFC 600] autopilot enhances and expands the basic autopilot function and streamlines the controls, reducing workload and removes the need for some external adapters," said Aspen Vice President of Sales and Customer Support Mark Ferrari, in a news release, noting the benefits are particularly apparent during single-pilot instrument flight. "We have been working diligently to ensure the owners who currently have a digital autopilot or are considering replacing their analog autopilot have a cost-effective, highly robust and easy-to-use glass display at an affordable price point."