The two BAE Systems 146-100s operated by No 32 (The Royal) Squadron, previously known as the Queen’s Flight, are to undergo a major cockpit upgrade. The upgrade is based on the Electronic Flight Instrumentation System (EFIS) flight deck modification developed by BAE Systems’ regional aircraft business for Lufthansa, and certified in December 2006.
The new flight deck is based on liquid crystal displays (LCDs), with proven Collins Type FPI-920 display units in all four positions, and is claimed to be a simpler, more cost-effective and more modern LCD alternative to the ‘Phase 2’ CRT-based EFIS fitted to new-build BAe 146s after the 163rd aircraft.
The Lufthansa aircraft have accumulated over 68,000 flying hours across the instruments, with a mean Time between Failures of 22,869 hours up until the end of March 2007.
The first RAF aircraft will be upgraded during early 2008 and the second will follow by early 2009, and the ‘Queen’s Flight Seal of Approval’ is a “real boost to the programme”, according to project manager Sandy Dalling, which is being actively marketed to other carriers.
The BAE 146s have been heavily tasked supporting operations in Iraq and Afghanistan.
Source: Flight Daily News
