Clay Lacy Aviation (CLA) expects to receive a supplemental type certification (STC) for a Universal Avionics Future Air Navigation System (FANS 1/A+), controller-pilot data link communications (CPDLC), Link 2000+ and ADS-B solution for Gulfstream IV and GIVSP business jets by April 2014.
Currently the Van Nuys, Calif.-based aviation services provider is working with Envoy Aerospace on the certification process, with installation on the initial certification aircraft scheduled for January. Immediately following initial certification, CLA plans for an amendment to the STC for GV aircraft.
Although commercial aircraft have been using FANS 1/A+ for decades in the North Atlantic Track Crossings zone, only a small percentage of business jets have used it. FANS 1/A+ is a replacement for current position reports using HF radio communications, with automatic satellite-based position reports delivered directly to air traffic controllers from the onboard flight management system (FMS) and data link system, CLA said.
North Atlantic mandates require aircraft flying in that region to be equipped with FANS 1/A+ equipment by 2020.
CLA estimates there are currently 500 GIV and GIVSP in-service jets that will be eligible to receive the FANS system upgrade.