Evolution-1000

The European Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) has approved Aspen Avionics’ EFD1000H primary flight display (PFD) for installation on Bell and Bell / Agusta 206 helicopters.

The agency has issued supplemental type certificate (STC) 10053378 for the Evolution flight display system (EFD).

Said to be a perfect fit for the Bell 206 platform, the lightweight form factor is a key contributor to Aspen’s helicopter PFD system.

The solid-state electronic flight instrument EFD1000H PFD system is said to be a modern alternative to mechanical attitude indicators, directional gyros and horizontal situation indicators.

With this STC, Bell 206 operators will be able to upgrade their ageing mechanical instruments with glass panel technology.

"Aspen’s unique retrofit technology is ideal for the helicopter market."

Aspen sales and customer support vice-president Mark Ferrari said: "Aspen’s unique retrofit technology is ideal for the helicopter market.

"The combination of superior digital ADAHRS reliability, affordable pricing, and robust features that increase situational awareness is what makes the Evolution flight display system such a compelling solution for Bell 206 operators."

EFD1000H PFD features slaved directional gyro (DG) or horizontal situation indicator (HSI) functionality, DG and HSI pilot configurable, map of GPS flight plan, solid-state air data computer and attitude reference system.

Other features include a built-in 30-minute back-up battery and emergency GPS sensor.

Based in Albuquerque, New Mexico, Aspen Avionics specialises in advanced technology offerings for general aviation cockpits to increase situational awareness and reduce pilot workload.


Image: Aspen’s EFD1000H PFD system. Photo: courtesy of Aspen Avionics.