BAE Systems expects European Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) certification imminently for its liquid-crystal display upgrade for early BAe 146 cockpits.Nine aircraft are to be equipped with the new displays and one is already flying with the system.
Lufthansa regional airline partners Eurowings and Air Dolomiti are the launch customers for the modernisation under which electromechanical displays will be replaced by the liquid-crystal monitors.
Around 140 early BAe 146s could receive the upgrade. The work involves fitting Rockwell Collins FPI-920 displays, which replace analogue systems such as the horizontal situation indicator and attitude director indicator.
BAE Systems Regional Aircraft customer services director Rob Hearn says the modernisation has received “significant endorsement” by pilots following test flights, particularly regarding the clarity of the display, the ease of operation and increased situational awareness.
- BAE is nearing a launch decision on its proposed 146 freighter, having narrowed the options for a conversion centre to three locations. The manufacturer has identified two sites in the Americas and one in eastern Europe that could carry out the conversion work.
DAVID KAMINSKI-MORROW / LONDON
Source: Flight International
