Universal Avionics secures FAA certification for Wi-Fi-enabled flight management system
TUCSON, Ariz. - Universal Avionics, a subsidiary of Elbit Systems, has received certification from the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) for the installation of its Wi-Fi-enabled Flight Management System (FMS) on Part 25 aircraft, the Tucson, Ariz.-based company announced. The Approved Model List Supplemental Type Certificate (AML STC) facilitates the integration of Universal’s Connected Avionics technology across multiple aircraft models.
The Connected Avionics solution connects the Universal FMS with the company’s FlightPartner iPad application, enabling pilots to update flight plans and databases in real time. The system significantly reduces the time needed for database updates—by nearly 45 minutes—and streamlines pre-flight preparation.
Pilots can interact with the FMS via an iPad throughout all phases of flight, enhancing situational awareness and enabling flight plan adjustments on the ground and in the air. The system also allows direct input of flight route data, including wind conditions, fuel estimates, and takeoff and landing performance, reducing manual data entry. Additionally, the aircraft automatically collects flight data, which can be analyzed using the UA FlightReview application or third-party monitoring software.
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"When time equals money, being able to save time and adjust flight plans on the go is pivotal for enhancing operational efficiency," said Dror Yahav, CEO of Universal Avionics. "Seamless database updates and agile, real-time flight planning on an iPad interface are now a reality on these aircraft thanks to a combination of efforts to receive extensive cybersecurity approvals."
The Connected FMS meets cybersecurity and safety standards to ensure secure communication between avionics systems. It is now available on aircraft models from Bombardier, Cessna, Dassault, Gulfstream, Hawker, Learjet, ATR, De Havilland, Embraer, and Saab.
