#United States #Olathe #Garmin #GFC 600H #Airbus H130

Garmin's GFC 600H Flight Control System for Airbus H130

Garmin has made an exciting announcement for helicopter operators: the company is about to receive Supplemental Type Certificate (STC) approval for their new GFC™ 600H Helicopter Flight Control System designed specifically for Airbus H130 helicopters. This advanced system is tailored to significantly enhance operational efficiency and safety features for flight crews.

Enhanced Flight Capabilities

The GFC 600H integrates cutting-edge technology to reduce pilot workload and improve mission effectiveness. Key features include:

• - Attitude Hold with Speed Stability: Assists pilots in maintaining optimal flight attitudes.
• - Hover Assist Mode: Automatically detects hover conditions, providing inputs for steady position control.
• - Garmin Helicopter Electronic Stability and Protection (H-ESP™): Helps keep the helicopter within a safe operating envelope.
• - Dedicated Return-to-Level (LVL) Mode: For avoiding disorientation in challenging visual conditions.
• - Overspeed and Low-Speed Protection: To safeguard against common flight hazards.

Carl Wolf, Garmin’s Vice President of Aviation Sales and Marketing, expressed enthusiasm about the GFC 600H, stating it “can significantly reduce inflight workload while providing many advanced and safety-minded capabilities to better assist pilots in conducting their missions.”

Innovative Features for Improved Control

The GFC 600H allows for an easier and smoother piloting experience. It features a console-mounted mode controller complete with push-button controls and a night vision goggle (NVG) compatible display. Moreover, integrated smart servos facilitate pitch and roll inputs as directed by the system. Additional functionality such as cyclic-mounted trim controls emphasizes direct manipulation without necessitating any hand-off from flight controls during basic operations, enhancing efficiency.

Garmin has worked diligently to ensure that the GFC 600H enhances the inherent capabilities of the H130. According to Jerome Ronssin, Head of Light Helicopters Program at Airbus Helicopters, this innovative autopilot system stretches the operational capabilities of the H130 significantly, yielding advanced stability while improving control which leads to safer, more efficient, and productive missions.

Aiming for a 2025 Retrofit Release

The GFC 600H retrofit availability for the Airbus H130 and EC130 T2 is anticipated to be in Q2 2025, and it will also be offered as a factory-installed option for brand-new Airbus H130 helicopters. This addition is pivotal for helicopter operators looking to elevate their aviation experience with reliable, state-of-the-art technology. For more details, operators can visit https://www.garmin.com/GFC600H.

Garmin’s Commitment to Innovation

Garmin, a leader in flight solutions, aims to redefine aviation standards globally. The company has consistently delivered top-tier technology across various aviation sectors, including general aviation, business aviation, and government services. Their commitment to innovation is further illustrated by their accolade, the Robert J. Collier Trophy, awarded for the Garmin Autoland—the world's first certified autonomous system capable of safely landing an aircraft during emergencies without human intervention.

In a world where aviation safety and efficiency are paramount, Garmin continues to strive for excellence, proving that every day is an opportunity to innovate and enhance the aviation experience for pilots and operators alike. Expect significant advancements with the rollout of the GFC 600H, reinforcing Garmin’s status as a key player in the aviation industry.

For access to further details and updates about Garmin’s initiatives, please follow their social channels or check their blog regularly.