Autopilot Support for Aspen Glass Panels Expanded

Aspen Avionics obtained approval from the FAA for new software enabling integration of a handful of autopilots with their EFD1000 Pro MAX Primary Flight Display (PFD).

The approval covers GFC600 digital autopilot, improving single-pilot operation with streamlined control flows and PFD integration. In addition to the GFC600 approval, the Aspen PFD gains selected altitude support for both Trio and Bendix/King AeroCruze 100 autopilots, as well as extended runway centerlines on the MFD500/1000 MAX multi-function displays. With the new software, the Evolution E5 Dual Electronic Flight Instrument (EFI) is now a TSO’d Electronic Flight Instrument System (EFIS).

The software unlock package for the GFC600 digital autopilot upgrade runs $1,995 through any Aspen Avionics dealer. Aircraft owners should contact their installers regarding the availability  of a GFC600 Supplemental Type Certificate (STC) for their aircraft. Not all the changes require payment, however, with one extra coming free with version 2.12. Extended runway centerlines now show up on the Evolution MFD500/1000 MAX multi-function display.

“Aspen’s Pro MAX PFD coupled with the GFC600 autopilot enhances and expands the basic autopilot function and streamlines the controls, reducing workload and removes the need for some external adapters. When combined with all the features and benefits of Aspen’s glass panel technology, flying becomes easier and safer, especially for single pilot IFR missions,” said Mark Ferrari, vice president of sales and customer support. “We have been working diligently to ensure the owners who currently have a digital autopilot or are considering replacing their analog autopilot have a cost-effective, highly robust and easy-to-use glass display at an affordable price point,” continued Ferrari.

FMI: www.aspenavionics.com