Embraer 190 with Dual Rockwell Collins HGS Certified for CAT III

A dual-configuration Rockwell Collins HGS (head-up guidance system) has been certified by the FAA, the Brazilian National Civil Aviation Agency (ANAC) and the European Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) for CAT III operations.

The Rockwell Collins Model 5600 HGS is already flying with launch customer JetBlue on its fleet of 26 E190s, and with this certification, the airline may now begin their operational approval process and training programs to operate in conditions of runway visibility as low as 600 feet and decision heights down to 50 feet.  JetBlue estimates this approval process will take 12-15 months.

The HGS 5600 was originally approved for installation on the E190 in November 2005, making it the first commercial airplane ever to be certified with dual HUDs (head up displays).  JetBlue pilots use the system as a primary flight reference, which means both the captain and first officer have the same improved "eyes out" situational awareness.

A follow-on Cat III HGS certification is planned for the Embraer 195, according to Rockwell Collins.  06-19-2007.

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