Features
TrueNorth gets new STC for FANS-1/A+ Data Link Unit
TrueNorth Avionics has reported that Clay Lacy Aviation has obtained an STC for the company’s Simphonē FANS-1/A Data Link UnitPlus as part of a flight deck system on a Bombardier Challenger 601 aircraft. The STC meets worldwide mandates while improving safety, lowering operating costs and reducing flight times. The DLU, which is the only FAA TSO-C159a FANS over Iridium system for the flight deck, streamlines the STC process because it already meets specific requirements.
September 16, 2015 By TrueNorth Avionics
“We are incredibly pleased, but not surprised at the adoption rate of our Simphonē DLU,” said Mark van Berkel, TrueNorth CEO. “Our data link unit connects easily with a wide range of flight management systems, and requires no configuration. This reduces installation times and the associated costs.”
“Before TrueNorth’s data link unit there were no products certified to the FAA TSO C-159a requirements for FANS over Iridium flight deck communications,” said Jim Lauer, Clay Lacy director of avionics. “The absence of a certifiable device slowed the process and required additional data that was difficult to obtain. The Simphonē DLU made this FANS program easier to complete, and we intend to use the TrueNorth component on a number of aircraft going forward.”
While safety always comes first, aircraft owners and operators are also looking for operational efficiencies. FANS-1/A compliant systems allow pilots and controllers to communicate through a text-based interface rather than HF voice and automatically report aircraft positioning. This reduces communications error and crewmember stress, and allows operators to fly more efficient routes. Notes van Berkel, “Clay Lacy has an excellent reputation with avionics installation and certification and we are proud to work with Jim and his team to make flying safer and more efficient for aircraft operators.”
TrueNorth’s Simphonē FANS-1/A DLU is a standalone component with FAA, Transport Canada and EASA TSO-159a. The lightweight unit has a small footprint and features a built-in Iridium transceiver. Operators flying in the oceanic regions and Europe understand that qualified data link communication is essential to complying with the FANS mandate, as commercial and business jet traffic continues to increase.
