Thales and Smiths Aerospace have delivered the full functional standard version of the FMS2 flight management system to Airbus for operation in its A320 narrowbodies.
This full version incorporates the L2 data link function enabling aircraft to exchange take-off, weather and flight plan information with the ground, as well as transmitting position reports.
The FMS2 programme, managed by prime contractor Thales in close cooperation with Smiths Aerospace, aims to provide the Airbus A320 and A340 families with a true second-generation flight management system, with every feature needed to meet the latest air traffic regulations, while improving the aircraft's operability and performance.
Delivery of the L2 version will lead to REV1 certification for the A320, expected in the middle of 2002, following completion of flight tests. All functions needed for revenue service have now been integrated and qualified as flight-worthy.
Development work is continuing on subsequent certification of an FMS2 standard (REV2) for the A340 family.
Source: Flight Daily News
