NextGen Software Makes More Airports Available for Efficient Routing

The FAA has granted an STC to Honeywell for installation of its FMZ-2000 flight management system on Challenger 601-3A and -3R aircraft. The company says the upgrade provides better access to more airports, improved safety, reduced crew workload and significant operational efficiency for operators. Honeywell’s FMS 6.1 software upgrade is available through Duncan Aviation.

“Honeywell is driving significant interest in our NextGen upgrades for the FMZ-2000 FMS because we understand our customers’ needs and are investing in solutions that address issues they believe to be important,” said Brian Sill, vice president, Business & General Aviation Aftermarket, Honeywell Aerospace.

One of the most desired NextGen navigation capabilities now available is the Wide Area Augmentation System-Localizer Performance with Vertical Guidance, or WAAS-LPV. WAAS-LPV provides access to more than 1,500 approaches in the United States and enables the crew to use Instrument Flight Rules (IFR) for approach and landing down to a minimum decision height of 200 feet above touchdown, with visibility as low as one-half mile, without the need of aircraft ground equipment. “What this means for Challenger operators is better access to more airports, improved safety, reduced crew workload and significant operational efficiency,” said Sill.

Challenger 601

The latest generation of FMS upgrades can be further enhanced with connectivity to Honeywell’s Global Data Center, which assists operators in maximizing their investment to realize greater cost efficiencies offered through enhanced flight planning and cockpit weather information.

Upgrades to the Challenger 601-3A and -3R are available through Duncan Aviation. Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) certification of Honeywell’s FMS 6.1 software upgrade was announced in August 2010. Approximately 600 aircraft will be eligible for the upgrade. Honeywell expects follow-on certifications for the Hawker 800XP, Falcon 900B, Gulfstream G-IV, Embraer Legacy 600/650, Gulfstream G-V, Falcon 900EX/C, Citation X, and Bombardier Global Express.

FMI: www.flywhatsnext.com