FAA approves two new navigation systems for Gulstream aircraft

Gulfstream has received US FAA operational capability approval for its PlaneView-equipped large-cabin business jets to fly required navigational performance-special aircraft and aircrew authorization required (RNP-SAAAR) approaches to a minimum RNP value of 0.1 nautical miles.
RNP-SAAAR procedures use global positioning and inertial navigation reference systems to fly predetermined paths that have been loaded onto the aircraft’s flight management computer. Gulfstream received operational capability approval to fly RNP-SAAAR approaches to a minimum of RNP 0.3 in late 2007.

Separately, Gulfstream’s flight operations department has clinched FAA approval to use the future air navigation system (FANS) 1/A data link on its G450 aircraft. Gulfstream says it is the first large-cabin purpose-built business-jet manufacturer to receive such approval.

The ability to use FANS 1/A applies to G450 aircraft equipped with the enhanced navigation package that is available for the signature PlaneView flight deck featuring Honeywell Primus Epic avionics. The enhanced package adds controller-pilot data link communication (CPDLC) to automatic dependent surveillance – contract (ADS-C), completing the aircraft’s FANS 1/A capability.

“This approval reflects the tremendous effort we’ve made toward preparing Gulfstream aircraft for the next generation of air navigation,” says Gulfsream senior vice-president, programmes, engineering and test Pres Henne.

“Being able to offer ADS-C and CPDLC to our operators is important because they provide improved communications and operational efficiency. Our operators value that and we do, too.”

(Mary Kirby - Flight Global News)