Rockwell Collins Certifies First MLS-capable Multi-mode Receiver

Rockwell Collins has gained the first-ever TSO approval for a multi-mode receiver with microwave landing system (MLS) capability. Besides MLS, the receiver integrates VOR, ILS, marker beacon and GPS. Cat III MLS approaches are in use at a handful of European airports, most notably London Heathrow. The precision navigation concept has also been adopted by the military for set-up of “portable” precision approaches anywhere in the world. Collins completed flight tests of the MMR more than a year ago, flying some 100 MLS approaches to 12 airports in the U.S. and Europe. The flights were conducted with FAA and UK CAA oversight, and with cooperation from the National Aerospace Laboratory of the Netherlands, said Collins.