Fokker Services and FreeFlight Systems have announced a partnership to provide a low-cost update to airborne navigation systems without replacing existing equipment or making extensive changes to the aircraft.
The partners claim the dual system with certification is about one-third of the cost of a new flight management system (FMS), and requires about 100 man-hours to install.
The modification enhances accuracy and performance of existing IRS/FMS systems without GPS capability by integrating GNSS/SBAS data. The system was originally designed for Fokker 70/100 aircraft, but will work for other airline transport or business-jet cockpits. The upgrade will allow flight crews to fly GPS-based RNAV for the entire flight (SID, enroute, STAR), in addition to allowing non-precision GPS approach capability. The system is claimed to improve situational awareness and provide lateral guidance based on GNSS.
The integrated system also enables growth to GPS landing system (GLS) capability and improves the availability of the enhanced ground proximity warning system (EGPWS). Additionally, with a connection to a compliant transponder, the modification will support ADS-B Out. The Integrated GNSS/SBAS system is designed to be installed without disrupting or replacing the FMS, flight instrument, or the Automated Flight Control and Augmentation Systems (AFCAS). Modifications to the aircraft include: a control panel, a data converter, a navigation status display for the flight crew, and GNSS/SBAS sensors to provide high integrity position data.
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This week on the Shephard Defence Podcast, senior naval reporter Harry Lye and military training & simulation reporter Norbert Neumann chat with Professor John Louth.
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