News
Western Avionics retrofits Nav Canada CRJ’s for Flight Inspection Services

Dec. 4, 2008, Calgary – Western Avionics has just completed the conversion of two Bombardier Regional Jets from passenger configuration into a state-of-the-art Flight Inspection aircraft for Nav Canada.

Working closely with Nav Canada, Western Avionics engineers developed, installed and certified a new Flight/Airways Inspection system in Nav Canada’s CRJ-200’s. The systems installed consists of 17 new antennas, an FIS (Flight Inspection Services) operator console and workstation, along with the requisite equipment racks necessary for easy access to all of the componentry necessary to provide this highly sophisticated service to an international clientele.

In order to deliver the level of precision necessary for FIS operations, cockpit upgrades included dual GPS/WAAS-capable flight management systems for GPS-based precision approach capability, dual electronic flight bags, and a new digital audio system configured for use with seven users. More extensive upgrades included a Cat III headsup guidance landing system and ADS-B enabled ATC transponders.

The FIS operator console is equipped with a Universal Avionics EFI-890R flat panel PFD with a Vision 1 synthetic vision system for increased situational awareness. The aircraft was then specifically certified for low altitude “Clean Configuration” airwork.

Nav Canada’s next project is the conversion of a DeHavilland DHC-8 from its current 37-seat passenger configuration into a Flight Inspection Services aircraft. This latest aircraft will arrive at Western’s Calgary International facility in January 2009.

For further information, please contact Mr. Mark O’Hearn at Western Avionics: 403-291-2464 ext. 504, or mohearn@westernavionics.com .