Many helicopter owners and operators now have a quick and easy solution to comply with the FAA’s mandate to equip their aircraft for ADS-B out. L-3 Aviation Products announced yesterday at Heli-Expo 2016 that it has obtained FAA approval for installation of its Lynx line of ADS-B products in 93 helicopter models. The fixed-wing product has been in use for about a year.
The approval for the one-box system, which includes both ADS-B in traffic and weather information and touchscreen control, fits into the same space on the panel as a standard transponder, said Larry Riddle, vice president of marketing and sales for L-3 Aviation Products (Booth 2411). “L-3’s top-of-the-line Lynx NGT-9000 is an all-in-one solution for rotorcraft operators needing to replace their aging transponder while achieving ADS-B compliance.” The company also offers remote-mount versions.
The Lynx touchscreen, which uses resistive technology, can be activated with bare or gloved fingers, even with fairly thick winter gloves. Only two gestures are needed: touch and swipe.
The NGT-9000 lists for $6,800, but here at Heli-Expo L-3 Aviation Products is offering a promotional price of $5,495. The NGT-9000+, which adds active traffic to ADS-B coverage, is being offered for $7,250 during the show (list price $9,320).
The 93 helicopter models currently covered under the Lynx approved model list supplemental type certificate (AML STC) include those from AgustaWestland/Finmeccanica, Airbus Helicopters, Bell, Enstrom, MD Helicopters, Robinson and Sikorsky. All Lynx models are approved under the AML STC, which includes the NGT-9000 and the remote mount NGT-2500 and -1000. Many of the Lynx models offer the ability to send weather and data to third-party iPad and Android pilot apps via Wi-Fi.
Additional information about Lynx is on L-3’s website, including a free app that simulates the Lynx touchscreen on iOS and Android devices.