Astronics Corporation has received approval for an amended supplemental type certificate (STC) for the Max-Viz 2300 Enhanced Vision System (EVS). Offered by Astronics' wholly owned subsidiary Astronics Max-Viz and obtained in cooperation with AVIO design group in Calgary, Canada, the STC covers multiple Textron and Leonardo Helicopter models including AW109 and AW119 aircraft.

With the US FAA and Transport Canada Civil Aviation (TCCA) approvals, images produced by the Max-Viz 2300 can now be presented on MFDs (multi function displays), PFDs (primary flight displays), or on standalone displays depending on aircraft configurations. The amendment upgrades the wiring package to include VIVISUN switches for more effective mission utilisation with night vision goggles in search and rescue, emergency medical services, aerial firefighting and military applications.

“Our technology provides pilots with an unprecedented level of situational awareness and safety,” says business unit manager Tom Geiger. “We worked closely with AVIO to get this technology approved for daily missions on these Leonardo helicopters.”

Astronics Max-Viz EVS provides improved safety and enhanced vision, enabling pilots to see more precisely in adverse weather conditions such as haze, smoke, smog and light fog, even on the darkest night. At night, pilots can also see and avoid clouds for a smoother ride. While landing, pilots using the Max-Viz EVS can identify the runway and view the terrain clearly to avoid wildlife and unlit obstructions.

A recent ruling from the FAA permitting properly equipped aircraft to fly certain IFR approaches to landing, in lieu of natural vision, is expected to drive additional acceptance of EVS technology. Of the over 3,250 installed Astronics Max-Vis EVS systems, approximately 60 per cent are on fixed wing general aviation aircraft and 40 per cent are operating on helicopters. With supplemental and type certificates in both fixed wing and rotor wing aircraft, Astronics Max-Viz offers products built on more than 15 years of success in enhanced vision systems.

AVIO offers avionics system design, product design, electrical and structural design and substantiations, development and testing, aircraft livery design and drawings, aero medical HEMS, certification for human factors and ergonomic evaluations, advanced 3D printing/part creation, NVIS lighting designs and repair designs. The company will serve as the point of contact for obtaining new installations of the Max-Viz 2300 with this STC.