Astronics Corporation has received approval from the US, Canada and EASA for its Max-Viz 1200 and 1400 enhanced vision systems (EVS) for Airbus Helicopter EC130 B4 and T2 models, in cooperation with AVIO in Calgary, Canada.

The initial Max-Viz 1400 installation using the newly approved STC was performed by Ontario-based EuroTec Canada, part of EuroTec Vertical Flight Solutions, headquartered in Euroda, Kansas. The EVS will be displayed on the upgraded Garmin TXi avionics.

“Astronics' Max-Viz technology provides pilots with an unprecedented level of situational awareness and safety,” states Tom Geiger, Max-Viz business unit director for Astronics. “Our EVS is perfectly suited for these single-engine light utility helicopters. To advance the application of our technology, we worked closely with STC holder AVIO to get this excellent technology approved for daily missions on the EC130.”

Astronics' Max-Viz 1200 and 1400 systems are lightweight, solid-state, low power and feature an uncooled thermal camera. The sensor image displays on any cockpit equipment that accepts NTSC or PAL/analogue RS-170 video signals, including MFDs (multi-function displays) and PFDs (primary flight displays). It also shows well on standalone displays, including iPads and other tablets, depending on aircraft configurations.

“Using the Max-Viz EVS during our initial certification flights and having it integrated and displayed on the Garmin TXi truly exceeded my expectation on the clarity and detail that was provided by the system,” comments York Galland, current owner of the aircraft.

Astronics' Max-Viz EVS provides improved safety through enhanced vision, enabling pilots to see more precisely in adverse weather conditions, such as haze, dust, smoke, smog and light fog, even on the darkest night. In addition, pilots can detect 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.

The FAA permits properly equipped aircraft to fly certain Instrument Flight Rule (IFR) approaches to landing, in lieu of natural vision. Of the over 4,000 installed Astronics Max-Vis EVS systems, approximately 60 percent are on fixed-wing general aviation aircraft and 40 percent are operating on rotor wing aircraft.

With supplemental and type certificates in both aircraft types, Astronics offers products built on 20 years of success in enhanced vision systems.