EVS Pilatus

Transport Canada has awarded a supplemental type certificate (STC) to Pilatus Centre Canada (PCC) and Northeast Engineering & Development for their Pilatus PC-12 enhanced vision system (EVS).

The system features the Lexavia LFS6000 EVS sensor, which is available in 320 x 240 and 640 x 480 resolutions.

The LFS6000 is claimed to offer enhanced vision capability during darkness, smoke, bad weather and other limited visibility situations, allowing pilots to better identify terrain, structures, vehicles and other aircraft on and near runways.

The sensor location on the PC-12 will also provide the pilot with an accurate point-of-view image.

PCC executive vice-president and COO Steve Davey said: "When choosing our equipment provider, the compact size, exceptional performance and ease of installation of Lexavia’s sensor made our decision an easy one.

"This is an affordable solution for PC-12 owners and operators, who want the safety benefits that an enhanced vision system provides."

The STC is applicable for the next-generation PC-12 variant.

The US Federal Aviation Administration is to approve a STC for EVS in the fourth quarter this year, while the European Aviation Safety Agency approval is expected in early 2015.

Image: Transport Canada’s STC is applicable for the next-generation PC-12 variant. Photo: courtesy of Pilatus Centre Canada.

Defence Technology