Chicago Jet STCs Universal Avionics Falcon 900 Retrofit

Chicago Jet Group has received the first FAA supplemental type certificate for a future air navigation system (Fans) 1/A+ and controller-pilot datalink communications (CPDLC) retrofit. The Fans/CPDLC system is installed in a Dassault Falcon 50 managed by Chicago Jet and also represents the first Fans-over-Iridium retrofit for a business jet.

Fans capability will be required for flying the most efficient tracks across the North Atlantic, and this retrofit also meets the upcoming Eurocontrol Link 2000+ mandates that take effect on Feb. 5, 2015.

Chicago Jet worked closely with Universal Avionics, which provided its UniLink UL-801 communications management unit, flight management systems and CVR-120A cockpit voice recorder for the retrofit. The CVR is required for recording datalink messages. An International Communications Group NxtLink ICS-220A Iridium satcom supplies a dedicated voice channel and a datalink channel for Acars, Fans 1/A+ messaging and CPDLC. The systems are interfaced with dual Universal UNS-1Lw FMSs. Work has already begun on a Fans-over-Iridium STC for the Falcon 900 series, slated for approval in next year’s first quarter.

The company is also working on a Gulfstream IV STC.