Helicopter IFR Just Got Far More Capable
Garmin has been granted the FAA's first ever approved model list
supplemental type certificate (AML-STC) for Wide Area Augmentation
System (WAAS) avionics installed in a helicopter. The AML-STC is
for the installation of the Garmin GNS 400W/500W series and
includes approval for IFR flight and steep approach
lateral-precision with vertical (LPV) guidance. With this
comprehensive AML-STC, GNS 400W/500W series units may be installed
in approximately 50 different makes and models of helicopters
including the Bell 206, Enstrom 280FX, Agusta A109, Eurocopter
EC135, MD Helicopters 600N-NOTAR, Robinson R22 and R44, and many
more.
"Receiving an STC for a single helicopter is an impressive feat,
but to receive an AML-STC for approximately 50 helicopters is an
accomplishment many thought would never happen because of the
complexity and differences between helicopter models," said Gary
Kelley, Garmin's vice president of marketing. "We are very pleased
that this AML-STC will make it easier for operators of the world's
most popular helicopters to install the GNS 400W/500W series. These
pilots will now have access to the unmatched technological
advantages and safety enhancements that come with a fully
integrated GPS/WAAS product."
The GNS 400W/500W series received the FAA's highest level of
certification for WAAS navigation. The units utilize
satellite-based navaids for precise lateral and vertical approach
guidance - similar to Instrument Landing System (ILS) operations -
without the need for ground-based navaids of any kind. The FAA has
already published over 1,500 LPV and 5,600 LNAV and LNAV/VNAV
approach procedures, which exceeds the number of ILS
approaches.
The WAAS system improves the accuracy, reliability and integrity
of the GPS signal. GPS-WAAS navigators that meet the FAA's WAAS
regulations may be used for sole means of navigation for all phases
of flight, including en route through precision approach at
airports and heliports - wherever they may be. With WAAS LPV
approaches, pilots will have stabilized lateral and vertical
navigation, and will be able to navigate as low as 200 feet above
the touch down point under instrument flight rules.
As part of the IFR certification, the GNS 400W/500W series is
also certified for custom steep LPV approaches for up to six
degrees, flying by hand or with a fully coupled autopilot. These
custom approaches help law enforcement and medical teams land in
areas with urban rooftops, such as hospitals, in the most extreme
weather conditions and below public enroute minimums.
"Using customized steep LPV approaches will ultimately help save
lives because flight crews can increase the services they provide
as they pick up patients in need of transport," said Kelley.