Astronics’s Max-Viz 1200 and 1400 enhanced vision systems (EVS) have received STC approval from the FAA and Transport Canada for installation in the Airbus Helicopters AS350B/B1/B2/B3/BA/BD. The avionics manufacturer worked with Calgary, Alberta-based Avio on the STCs.
The Max-Viz 1200 and 1400 systems, which are lightweight and feature an uncooled thermal camera, can output sensor images on any avionics displays that can accept NTSC or PAL/analog RS-170 video signals. They provide improved safety by enabling pilots to see terrain, obstacles, and airport environments more precisely in adverse weather conditions such as haze, smoke, smog, and light fog.
“Our EVS is perfectly suited for aerial firefighting, heli-skiing, search and rescue, and utility operations,” said Max-Viz business unit director Tom Geiger. “The Astronics Max-Viz technology provides pilots with an unprecedented level of situational awareness and safety.”
According to Astronics, more than 3,500 Max-Viz systems are installed on aircraft to date. Of those, approximately 60 percent are on general aviation airplanes and 40 percent are operating on rotorcraft.