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Leonardo enhances AW139 with Honeywell Phase 8

Leonardo introduced enhancements for its AW139 intermediate twin engine helicopter with the recently obtained European Aviation Safety Agency certifications for the Honeywell Primus Epic integrated avionics Phase 8 software and the EGPWS (Enhanced Ground Proximity Warning System) optional kit with offshore modes.

The company notes this Phase 8 software release marks the introduction of an advanced Synthetic Vision System (SVS) specifically tailored for helicopter applications, improved 2D maps and wireless data loading. As a result, Leonardo explains the software delivers greater all-weather capabilities and mission effectiveness for all commercial and government missions. This includes increasing crew situational awareness and reducing workload for operations at night or in marginal weather.

Leonardo states its Synthetic Vision System assists with navigation and landing approaches when operating within challenging terrain, oil rigs, and other demanding scenarios, which is accomplished via 3D presentation of the external scenario, including surrounding terrain, obstacles, runways and helipads within the background of the Primary Flight Display.

A new 2D Interactive Navigation (INAV) feature showing the helicopter position and flight plan on a map into the Multi-Functional Display (MFD), according to Leonardo, delivers navigation system alignment and precision with the actual flight path taking into account environmental factors.

Phase 8 also features wireless connectivity embedded, providing high-speed data access for flight plans transfer and maintenance data gathering from the aircraft. Additionally, Custom Approach functionality provides the capability to design, set and fly an automated approach to any user-defined location, including oil-rig helidecks.

Leonardo explains the introduction of the new EGPWS version -036, which is also available for Phase 7, complements the latest software release and enhanced navigation capabilities for safer offshore operations. This more sophisticated HTAWS (Helicopter Terrain Awareness and Warning System) introduces recommendations of CAA CAP 1519 for what the company describes as optimal use in offshore environments, and gives pilots more time margin and earlier notifications for warning of a potential collision. Leonardo states this will prove to be a key enabler for recognizing and responding to unsafe conditions.