Eclipse Aviation Updates Avio NG with Dual Garmin GPS

Eclipse Aviation has incorporated dual Garmin GPS units into its Avio NG "total aircraft integration" system that will providing enhanced navigation capabilities for its Eclipse 500 VLJ (very light jet).

Avio NG integrates systems throughout the 500, including avionics, engine operation, fuel system, flaps, landing gear, cabin pressure and temperature. The addition of dual Garmin GPS 400W units will give the aircraft additional functionality including LPV (localizer performance with vertical guidance) approaches, using WAAS (wide area augmentation system).  All en route and terminal area navigation can be coupled and flight paths will be integrated on Avio NG's flat-panel navigation displays that are supplied by Innovative Solutions & Support (ISS).

Because the GPS will be coupled with the 500's integrated performance computer, weight and balance tools, and moving map, Eclipse says the aircraft will have the most advanced FMS (flight management system) features available today.

The GPS 400W units will be mounted below both ISS-supplied PFDs (primary flight displays) on the 500 and will replace the pilot and co-pilot keyboards.

A 500 flight test aircraft outfitted with the GPS units is currently undergoing developmental flight testing.  Eclipse expects certification of the configuration this summer, with production incorporation occurring in late summer.

All in-service customer aircraft will be retrofitted with dual GPS 400W units at Eclipse's expense, according to the company.  04-08-2008.

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