BOEING IS PLANNING to certify future Air Navigation System 1 (FANS-1)-equipped versions of its 757s and 767s by late 1997, possibly as part of a joint US Federal Aviation Administration/European Joint Airworthiness Authorities effort.
The US company is developing an improved version of its FANS-1 avionics package to offer to 757 and 767 operators. Boeing hopes to have the system ready for service by the first quarter of 1998, says CNS/ATM programme manager James Templeman.
It represents a further development of the FANS-1 system already in service on the 747-400. Improvements will include an upgraded flight-management computer, using the 777's Honeywell-developed aircraft- information management system, and new software-loadable engine-indication and crew-alerting system computer.
The 757/767 FANS-1 version will offer a "significant growth" in flight-management-computer processing and memory capacity. It is being designed to accommodate future Communication Navigation Surveillance/Air Traffic Management-1 (CNS/ ATM-1) enhancements.
The primary push for the new FANS-1 system, has come from major US 757/767 operators, such as American and Delta Airlines, though none have yet committed to it. Several operators have offered aircraft as flight test and certification vehicles, but a decision has still to be taken.
A potential sticking point is the FAA's previous refusal to use aircraft in commercial service for testing and certification purposes. The FANS-1-equipped 747-400 was last year certified offshore, using an in-service Qantas Airways aircraft.
Consideration is being given to a joint certification of the 757/767 FANS-1 system with the European JAA. The two authorities have already jointly certificated the 777. "The FAA is always open to proposals," says Templeman.
Source: Flight International
