Story ID: 625
UTAS Puts Newest Pitot Probe On Longitude
By: Sean Broderick
Caption: First business jet platform for newly advanced sensors.
Word Count: 279
UTC Aerospace Systems (UTAS), expanding its content on Textron's new super-midsize jet platform, has been tapped to supply air data pitot probes for the Cessna Longitude, the supplier announced.

The agreement, which includes support services, will see UTAS provide its newest 0851 pitot probes, which are flying on some commercial aircraft, for a business jet for the first time. The new probes incorporate advanced technology to meet recently updated FAA and EASA certification requirements that focus on ice-crystal conditions.

The deal also adds pitot probes to a list of UTAS sensors that will fly on the Longitude, including angle-of-attack sensors, ice detectors and total air temperature sensors.

"The business aviation sector is a key focus area for us," said Mark Skarohlid, vice president of business development for the company's Sensors & Integrated Systems division.

UTAS's announcement, made at the start of the NBAA 2017 convention, adds to the supplier's expanding business aviation portfolio. UTAS (Booth N2904) also debuted a new handheld, non-Halon cabin fire extinguisher, the Kidde Halotron BrX, designed as a drop-in replacement for Kidde 1211 extinguishers. Kiddle, like UTAS, is part of United Technologies.

The supplier also is showing off its newest Aircraft Interface Device (AID). The equipment functions as an enhanced air data management box that can also store data, run applications such as quick-access recorder programs, and transmit data via onboard connectivity devices, including Satcom systems and ACARS.

UTAS sees the AID, flying on more than 300 air transport aircraft, as an ideal fit for business jet operators seeking to add a variety of data management and communications capabilities in a single box.