Honeywell Aerospace has launched the third software generation of its SmartPath Ground-Based Augmentation System (GBAS) to further improve safety and efficiency of aircraft descents and landings.
Certified by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), the SmartPath software upgrades will be available to provide precise satellite-guided flight navigation that can augment airport capacity while bettering the safety and fuel efficiency of the aircraft as they land or take off.
The upgraded version, also known as Block II, will allow users to configure the system to make the best use of its availability.
It will provide air traffic controllers an increased number of approaches to the airport, as well as optimise airport efficiency and help passengers reach their destinations faster and safely.
The Block II software version will allow airlines and airports to access the system even at places where GPS signals are negatively impacted because of adverse weather conditions or very low latitudes.
Honeywell Aerospace director of business development Mike Underwood said: "Embracing digital navigation technologies such as GBAS is a priority for airports and airlines as passenger and cargo operations rise, increasing the strain on air traffic management systems.
"With the latest software updates, customers can better mitigate weather-related delays when approaching the runway, allowing for a safer and more efficient approach and landing."
The software upgrades will be available to the new and existing customers in the fourth quarter of this year.
Honeywell SmartPath is the only GBAS to be certified by the FAA. It has been installed at more than 15 airports across the world, including Chennai, Frankfurt, Houston, Newark, Shanghai and Sydney.
An optional Block II-S upgrade, called Satellite-Based Augmentation Systems (SBAS), will soon be available to better the performance level of GBAS.
Image: Block II of Honeywell’s SmartPath GBAS ensures airplane safety. Photo: courtesy of Honeywell International Inc.
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