Honeywell announced this morning that development of its Primus Apex integrated avionics system for Pilatus PC-12s is on track for certification in 2007.
The Honeywell flight-test programme has accrued more than 72h of flight test on 35 test flights and has already resulted in successful flight control and systems development. The programme is progressing towards Part 23 certifications.
“Autopilot testing is progressing well, having successfully completed the inner loop testing on schedule,” said John Todd, vice-president, business and general aviation, Honeywell Aerospace. “Earlier this year, a Pilatus test aircraft completed a round trip Atlantic crossing and Apex avionics operated flawlessly throughout the trip. The aircraft flew to Phoenix, then to Olathe, Kansas for avionics evaluations and has since returned to Stans, Switzerland for aircraft modifications.
The Pilatus test aircraft will return to Honeywell’s Olathe facility to complete the remaining scheduled flight test points in June.
“Primus Apex offers Pilatus the most advanced autoflight, navigation and situation awareness capabilities and is ideal for PC-12 operators looking for a new cockpit alternative,” Todd said. “The digital technology, ultra-high resolution displays, and fully automated controls assure the pilot easier flight deck operation and improved aircraft safety.”
Primus Apex is Honeywell’s integrated avionics platform for turboprop and light business jet applications. Primus Apex offers similar navigation and situational awareness capabilities as those offered in larger, global business jets such as integrated autothrottle and interactive navigation graphical flight planning with detailed terrain and sensor overlays.
Source: Flight Daily News
