Astronautics Corporation of America will supply its new Astronautics Air Ground Communications System (AGCS) connectivity solution to Airbus Helicopters.

Airbus Helicopters is claimed to be largest turbine helicopters supplier to the rotorcraft market.

The AGCS system includes an airborne server, a wireless communications module, a remote media device and ground server software to create a complete air-to-ground, modular data transmission system.

The system is expected to qualify by the end of next year.

With the installation of the AGCS system, Airbus helicopter operators will be able to secure protection of critical avionics from non-authorised access through implementation of a modern cybersecurity framework.

“Helicopter operators will realise enhanced operational and safety benefits through real-time data access."

The operators will also get wireless access to operational and maintenance data in-flight and on the ground, as well as have the capability to send and receive data through a variety of communication channels. The AGCS will also be able to store and retrieve hundreds of hours of operational data within the system.

Astronautics Corporation of America president Chad Cundiff said: “The Astronautics AGCS will provide Airbus Helicopters a connectivity solution designed specifically for helicopters with the latest certification regulations.

“Helicopter operators will realise enhanced operational and safety benefits through real-time data access.

“Plus, the AGCS' modular design and upgradeability will ensure the system can rapidly evolve to provide operators the latest, state-of-the-art digital innovation.”

In March, Astronautics signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with Vector Aerospace to obtain supplemental type certificates (STCs) for installation of the Astronautics RoadRunner electronic flight instrument (EFI) on various aircraft.


Image: Astronautics' AGCS connectivity system. Photo: courtesy of Astronautics Corporation of America.