First Air Uses Universal Avionics' WAAS-FMS for LPV Approach in Canada

A First Air B-737-200 recently conducted a LPV (localizer performance with vertical guidance) approach with a Universal Avionics' WAAS-FMS (wide area augmentation system-flight management system) at the Region of Waterloo International Airport in Ontario, Canada.

Transport Canada approved the use of WAAS in Canadian airspace on October 27, 2005, but coverage only recently became available when four Canadian WAAS ground reference stations at Goosebay, Gander, Winnipeg, and Iqaluit went operational.

First Air's 737-200 was equipped with dual UNS-1Fw FMSs, and is Universal's first airline customer for the SBAS (satellite-based augmentation system) -capable WAAS-FMS. The system is installed on the airline's entire fleet of 737s, 727s and ATRs.

LPV allows approaches as low as 200 feet with ½-mile visibility. The Universal WAAS-FMS uses altitude data obtained from its internal GPS/WAAS receiver to provide the necessary precision.

Universal says its new line of WAAS-capable FMS systems is certified for Part 23 and Part 25 aircraft and meets FAA TSO-C146b Gamma-3 and DO229D certification criteria.  04-02-2008.

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