High-Tech Glass Panel Upgrade Includes Weather Radar

Aero-News learned this week Air Methods Products Division has received FAA STC SR00650DE-D approval for its EC 145 SPIFR Avionics Package.

The installation features the latest in navigation, communications, and situational awareness systems mounted in a new instrument panel and glareshield. It is intended to provide an efficient, highly functional instrumentation configuration with excellent access to controls and displays as well as maximizing visibility outside the aircraft.

A variety of avionics and special mission systems have been integrated into this package -- including Dual Garmin GNS 430W NAV/COM/GPS, Garmin GMX 200 MFD, Honeywell Mark XXI EGPWS, Garmin GDL 69 or 69A Satellite Datalink System, Dual Garmin GTX 330 Transponders, Bendix King KRA-405B Radar Altimeter, Bendix King RDR-2000 Weather Radar, Sky Connect or OuterLink Satellite Tracking System, N.A.T. Audio System, Bendix King KR-22 Marker Beacon, Technisonic TDFM-6158/RC-6000 FM Communications System, Artex C406 ELT, and an NVIS Compatible Instrument Lighting Package.

"As the avionics systems available to our industry become more complex and designed to be NVIS compatible it has become necessary to STC approve these installations," says Art Torwirt, Vice President of Air Methods Products Division. "The combination of this equipment supports the demands of the EMS industry and enhances pilot situational awareness, which we believe will improve operational safety."

The installation was engineered and STC certified by Air Methods Products Division and their Designated Alteration Station (DAS-635841-NM), according to the company. The first aircraft equipped with the STC will be based with an Air Methods program in Tulsa, OK, replacing a Tulsa Life Flight BK-117.

FMI: www.airmethods.com