Honeywell Panels Predominate at Embraer

New Embraer regional jet models will use Honeywell panels and related avionics, giving the Phoenix-based avionics-maker commonality across the Brazilian manufacturer's entire regional jet line.
The new panels are the first to be integrated with equipment and systems added to the product line following Honeywell's merger with AlliedSignal Aerospace. Estimated value of the selection is over $180 million, based on Embraer's planned production schedule through 2013.

Honeywell's Primus 1000 panel was selected for the 44-passenger ERJ 140. It features four 8-in. x 7-in. color flat panel displays. Two are for primary flight information and the others show engine instrument and crew alerting system (EICAS) data, navigation information and other displays. Embraer now uses the Honeywell Primus 1000 panel for the ERJ 135 and ERJ 145 and the Primus Epic is planned for the ERJ 170 and 190 models.

Honeywell's new solid-state combined flight data and cockpit voice recorder will be used on the larger ERJ 170 and ERJ 190 models while the smaller aircraft will be fitted with separate voice and data recorders through 2003, when they will switch to the combined box. The version chosen by Embraer will have a 25-hour flight data recording capability and two hours of cockpit audio. All ERJ models will be wired to accept Honeywell's enhanced ground proximity warning system to meet the coming U.S. mandate for a terrain awareness and warning system.

By Paul Proctor