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Garmin expands GFC 600 autopilot approvals
Maintenance is minimal and self-monitoring is facilitated with the GFC 600 autopilot from Garmin. FAA has awarded the company an STC for Piper Meridians and TBMs.
Garmin has expanded its GFC 600 autopilot approvals.

Garmin is to receive FAA supplemental type certification (STC) for the GFC 600 autopilot in the Piper PA-46 310P/350P JetPROP and TBM 700/850. When properly equipped, the GFC 600 also offers new features in the TBM 700/850, including emergency descent mode (EDM) and low bank mode.

The GFC 600 delivers superior in-flight characteristics, self-monitoring capabilities and minimal maintenance needs when compared to older generation autopilot systems. It is intended for high performance piston single/twin-engine and turbine aircraft that have a wide range of speed and performance characteristics.

With the approval of the GFC 600 autopilot in the TBM 700/850, new features will be introduced to GFC 600. Low bank mode helps increase passenger comfort by automatically lowering the autopilot roll limit at higher altitudes. A separate switch may also be used by the pilot to activate and deactivate low bank mode at any altitude. Additionally, GFC 600-equipped TBM 700/850 aircraft will also feature emergency descent mode (EDM). In the event an aircraft loses cabin pressurisation, EDM is capable of automatically descending the aircraft to a preset altitude without pilot intervention to help avert hypoxic situations. In addition to the GFC 600 autopilot, a G600 TXi flight display is also required to receive these new autopilot features in the TBM 700/850.

The GFC 600 autopilot in the TBM 700/850 and PA-46 310P/350P JetProp is expected to be available in August. Garmin continues to broaden its aircraft approval list for the GFC 600 autopilots.

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