Hawker 4000 operators have the option of installing a fully integrated Future Air Navigation System (FANS) and Protected Mode Controller Pilot Data Link Communication (PM-CPDLC) under a recent supplemental type certificate obtained by Textron Aviation.
The Wichita aircraft manufacturer continues to support the super-midsize jet that has been out of production since 2013. Its FANS 1/A+ and PM-CPDLC program will enable pilots to ease communications with air traffic control and use the latest datalink services offered in North America and Europe.
Textron Aviation highlighted several advantages of the upgrade, including the ability to quickly and accurately load complex instructions into the flight management system with the push of a button. The FANS 1/A+ and PM-CPDLC program further will support future datacom capabilities, trajectory-based operations, improved rerouting around severe weather and congestion, and prioritized departure clearances. Textron likened PM-CPDLC to SMS text messaging used on a cellphone but using prescribed messages to request and receive clearances.
“The new cockpit technology upgrade for Hawker 4000 business jets reduces pilot workload and offers improved efficiency,” said Textron Aviation senior v-p of customer support Brian Rohloff. “Our team is committed to supporting customers throughout their ownership experience, and we made this option available through our global service network based on their feedback.”
Textron Aviation can perform the upgrade at certain company-owned service centers in the U.S.