Cockpit EJets 2nd Generation

US-based Honeywell Aerospace has secured a $2.8bn deal to provide Primus Epic 2 integrated avionics system for Brazilian aeroplane manufacturer Embraer’s second generation E-Jets.

The second-generation E-Jets programme is scheduled to be launched later this year.

Embraer Commercial Aviation president and chief executive officer Paulo Cesar Siva said that the agreement was an extension of an existing partnership with Honeywell.

"We believe that the evolution of the Honeywell Primus Epic, including large landscape displays, will provide flexibility for continuous innovation in the flight deck while offering a mature system and a smooth transition for pilots between the current and future generation of E-Jets."

Featuring four 13inx10in large landscape displays with advanced graphics capabilities, the Honeywell Primus Epic 2 integrated avionics system on the second-generation of E-Jets will be an upgraded version of the Primus Epic system installed on the current series.

"We believe that the evolution of the Honeywell Primus Epic will provide flexibility for continuous innovation in the flight deck while offering a mature system and smooth transition for pilots between the current and future generation of E-Jets."

Primus Epic system allows easy and effective integration of communication, navigation and air traffic management functionalities and has logged more than nine million flight hours to date.

Equipped with dual head-up displays, Embraer’s second-generation E-Jets will also be supported by Honeywell’s Next-Generation Flight Management System, which will offer flight planning, navigation and aircraft performance capabilities.

In January 2013, Embraer selected Pratt & Whitney’s PurePower Geared Turbofan engines to power its second generation E-Jets, which are scheduled to enter into service in 2018.

More than 900 current generation E-Jets are in service, with 63 operators from 43 countries presently operating or set to take delivery.

Honeywell Aerospace, a division of the Honeywell International conglomerate, is a manufacturer of aircraft engines and avionics, auxiliary power units (APUs) and other aviation products.

Image: Honeywell’s Primus Epic 2 integrated avionics system features four 13inx10in large landscape displays. Photo: courtesy of Embraer SA.

Defence Technology