Primus Epic Retrofit Nears FAA Approval

Honeywell is close to securing FAA approval for its Primus Epic Control Display System/Retrofit (CDS/R) program, which will bring 8x10-inch flat panel displays to used aircraft cockpits.

Technical Standard Order (TSO) approval is expected in February 2001, with STCs following shortly thereafter. Honeywell's Citation V test aircraft will be the first to receive the new equipment.

The CDS/R will make flying easier and safer, by presenting information in a "more meaningful, intuitive format," says Honeywell business, regional and general aviation avionics VP John Uczekaj.

Primus Epic is Honeywell's latest Electronic Flight Information System for the business and regional airline aircraft market, where it competes directly with Rockwell Collins' Pro Line 21 EFIS.

Both present flight data on large format displays, and provide advanced graphics not possible with the first-generation, cathode-ray-tube EFIS displays.

A derivative of the earlier Primus 1000/2000 systems, Primus Epic CDS/R uses an IC-1080 integrated computer to link the new digital avionics with the analog flight control systems found on most older business aircraft.

Honeywell also offers the NZ-2000, an optional internal flight management system and global positioning system designed to meet future Communications, Navigation, Surveillance and Air Traffic Management (CNS/ATM) requirements.

Operators can select up to four DU-1080 display units, which interface with TCAS I/II, Primus II radios, EGPWS, TAWS, Primus 880 weather radar, and Honeywell's Airborne Flight Information System.