New A350 XWBs to Have Rockwell Collins' Communications and Landing-Systems Packages

Airbus has selected Rockwell Collins' to supply the Communication Global Work package, Avionics Data Network, and landing systems for its new A350XWBs. These awards come in addition to Airbus' previous selection of Rockwell Collins' THSA (trimmable horizontal stabilizer actuator).

The Communication Global Work package consolidates and integrates five separate packages into one that includes the aircraft's next generation VHF and HF systems with improved size and weight and a smaller requirement for power; an ARINC 781 satellite communications system with low profile antenna and dual Swift Broadband capabilities; an ACR (avionics communications router) for datalink with ATN (aeronautical telecommunication network) capability a FANS-B (Airbus future air navigation system); the aircraft's audio; and a gatelink system, based on cellular technology.

(ARINC 781 is a standardization term, called a "characteristic," that defines the form, fit, function and interfaces of avionics - in this case satcom.)

The Airbus AFDX (avionics full duplex switched Ethernet), which is also featured on the A380 and A400M, connects aircraft systems and applications together, such as displays and IMA (integrated modular avionics)-based applications.

Rockwell Collins' MMR (multi-mode receiver) will provide ILS (instrument landing system) and GLS (GPS landing system), and the reference for aircraft's position, velocity and time.  It will implement the latest satellite navigation features, and is prepared for future airspace requirements such as SBAS (satellite-based augmentation system) and Europe's Galileo global satellite navigation satellite system.

In addition, Rockwell Collins' D-LRA (digital low range altimeter) will provide height information to the aircraft's automatic flight control system, instrument system, and terrain awareness and warning system, during approach, landing and climb-out phases of flight.  05-05-2008.

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