EASA Approves Gulfstream's Synthetic Vision and RNP SAAAR

The European Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) has approved the retrofit of Gulfstream's SV-PFD (synthetic vision-primary flight display) on European Union-registered G550s, G500s, G450s or G350s.  EASA also approved these in-production Gulfstream models to fly RNP (required navigation performance) SAAAR (special aircraft and aircrew authorization required) approaches.

Gulfstream's SV-PFD incorporates Honeywell's IPID (integrated primary flight display) technology, which features three-dimensional, colored terrain images overlaid with PFD instrument symbology, which are arranged on the screen to create a large view of the landscape.  The system combines terrain data from Honeywell's EGPWS (enhanced ground proximity warning system) with obstacle data, to depict topography, major obstructions, and runways, using an advanced graphics processor.

EASA's approval of RNP SAAAR approaches for these models, equipped with PlaneView cockpits, means they will be able to fly shorter routes and more direct paths to - in some cases - lower minimum approaches. These procedures use both GPS and qualified FMSs (flight management systems) to fly predetermined paths more accurately and reliably.

The FAA certified SV-PFD and approved the use of RNP SAAAR for Gulfstream's large-cabin aircraft in late 2007.  Gulfstream's PlaneView flight deck features Honeywell's Primus Epic avionics.  05-05-2008.

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