Garmin introduced the PlaneSync GDL 60 datalink at today’s new product introductions at the Aircraft Electronics Association Convention in Orlando, Florida. Designed to simplify sharing of aircraft data and make updating onboard databases easier, the PlaneSync connected aircraft management system is available now in new Garmin G3000-equipped aircraft such as Daher’s TBM 960 and Piper’s M600 SLS. It will also be available for retrofit.
PlaneSync is compatible with Garmin GTN Xi navigators, TXi flight displays, GI 275 electronic flight instruments, and certain Garmin integrated flight decks.
With the GDL 60 installed, aircraft owners and operators will no longer need a Flightstream 510 wireless gateway to share flight data with smart devices or to update avionics databases. The GDL 60 automatically performs database updates and logs flight and engine data, and users can check fuel and systems status remotely with the Garmin Pilot app. While flying, the GDL 60 offers similar Connext services as the Flightstream 510 including streaming data to smart devices. This includes ADS-B traffic and weather, SiriusXM satellite weather and audio, GSR 56 Iridium satcom weather and messaging, GPS and attitude data, and engine and flight data service subscriptions.
Both cellular 4G LTE and Wi-Fi connectivity are available with PlaneSync, although only 4G LTE can be used to access fuel and systems status remotely. Wi-Fi and 4G LTE are available for database updates and to upload flight and engine data. The database updates can be done with the airplane powered off, according to Garmin, and no one needs to be present. Once the pilot powers up the airplane, the databases are synchronized across compatible avionics, and there is no need to use data cards for manual updates. In early 2024, Garmin will add the ability for engine and flight log data to be transmitted automatically after landing.
The remote aircraft status feature allows owners to view the aircraft’s location, fuel quantity, active/standby database status; Hobbs, tachometer, and flight times; battery voltage; and outside air and oil temperature. Owners will also be able to assign access to aircraft status for other users, and this can be done using the Garmin Pilot app or D2 Mach 1 watch. Service plans are available for the LTE- and Wi-Fi-enabled features.
Prices for the GDL 60 start at $3,995 and the PlaneSync unit will be available for retrofit in the third quarter.