Single-Axis autopilot for experimentals interfaces to most GPS units

By ANN Correspondent Juan Jimenez

Alturair and Trio Avionics have teamed up to market a new autopilot for experimental and sport aircraft, the EZ Pilot. This unit is a solid-state device designed to accurately track a GPS flight plan or "go-to" course entered into a handheld or panel mount GPS.

The unit can also enter a bearing entered manually in Course mode, or select the Intercept mode to have the unit steer the aircraft back to a selected flight path.

A feature which the manufacturer calls Pilot Command Steering allows the pilot to press and hold a remote servo disconnect switch, then manually fly the aircraft to a new course. Releasing the button then engages the Course mode and the unit tracks the new course.

A two-line display on the front of the unit allows the pilot to see the waypoint designator, ground speed, distance to waypoint, time to waypoint and a graphic turn coordinator.

The unit is currently being flight tested on a LongEZ, and uses the Navaid Devices servo. Pricing has not been determined as of press time.

FMI: www.trioavionics.com, www.alturair.com