Astronics Connectivity Systems And Certification Receives Authorization For Retrofit Installations In Multiple Boeing Aircraft Models

The FAA has awarded an STC to Astronics Connectivity Systems and Certification (CSC) for retrofit installations of Astronics’ EmPower in the flight deck on multiple Boeing aircraft types. Astronics CSC completed the STCs in conjunction with retrofit projects for multiple airlines, in which more than 600 aircraft will provide the EmPower outlets for pilot use.

The STCs are for installations of 110VAC and USB outlet combinations, plus power supplies and associated wiring kits, on Boeing 737, 757, 767, and 777 aircraft. Astronics expects to receive additional STCs for more Boeing and Airbus aircraft later this year in conjunction with additional airline retrofit programs. Airlines can leverage these STCs for quick and simplified installations of EmPower flight deck power.

Pilots are increasingly using electronic flight bags (EFBs) and the number of real-time applications they are using on those devices is rising. Increased usage can drain power, and airlines are requiring easily accessible outlets integrated into the flight deck. Astronics’ EmPower products are already a standard linefit option on Boeing and Airbus, and these new STCs represent an additional retrofit opportunity for airlines to provide consistency within their fleets.

“We were honored to be selected by several airlines to create this retrofit solution for flight deck power,” said Michael Kuehn, President of Astronics CSC. “Our global experience in certification services is helping these airlines quickly provide a unified flight deck power experience across their entire fleets, which offers seamless convenience for their crews.”

EmPower systems, manufactured by Astronics Advanced Electronic Systems (AES), currently provide passenger and crew power on more than 220 airlines worldwide. The new STCs for outlets that contain a 110VAC with a USB will ensure that flight deck power will be “future proof” for next-generation flight deck computing devices.

(Image provided with Astronics news release)

FMI: astronics.com