Thales's Autopilot Solutions Overview
Thales offers cutting-edge autopilot solutions that are certified by both the FAA and EASA and are currently operational on a wide range of platforms globally. These solutions are versatile, catering to various types of aircraft designs, be it commercial, regional, military, business jets, helicopters, or drones.
Comprehensive Autopilot System
Thales provides a comprehensive range of solutions, from individual equipment components to complete end-to-end autopilot systems. Additionally, the software solutions offered by Thales can be seamlessly integrated into existing computing devices. The suite includes autopilot software applications for stabilization, control, guidance modes, auto throttle functionality, control panels, auto throttle assembly, actuators, probes, sensors, and computing devices.
Key Features of Thales Autopilot Solutions
Thales autopilot solutions boast several key features that make them stand out in the industry. These include TSO/ETSO certification, Precision Approach modes up to ILS CATIIIB, Non-Precision Approach modes like LNAV, LNAV/VNAV, RNP-AR 0.3, LPV, and GLS, advanced protection mechanisms, auto throttle capabilities, military-specific modes such as terrain following, and more.
Efficient Development Process
Thales emphasizes efficient development processes with certified tools and methodologies. Their early validation and agile development methods ensure timely delivery with reduced risk. The ability to fine-tune autopilot control laws plays a pivotal role in shortening the overall testing phase.
Upgrading Legacy Aircraft
Thales offers the flexibility to upgrade legacy aircraft by adding new functionalities. This includes enhancing capabilities such as LPV support, Search & Rescue features like dynamic search patterns and position holding, and more. These upgrades add significant value to existing fleets of aircraft.
Certification and Regulatory Compliance
Thales actively participates in various aviation committees to stay abreast of the latest regulations and recommendations in the industry. As a member of the AWOH ARC, Thales collaborates with FAA, EASA, and other entities to influence the development of regulations related to AWO operations based on emerging technologies like GLS, EVS, and SVS.
Notable References and Platforms
Thales has an impressive track record in autopilot development, dating back to the Concorde supersonic aircraft. Their autopilots have accumulated billions of flight hours across civil and military programs worldwide, including state-of-the-art 4-axis duplex helicopter AFCS systems. Thales autopilots have been integral to the success of major platforms like Airbus A300/A320/A330 families, ATR 42/72-600, Bombardier DH8-400, Dassault Mirage 2000, and various other aircraft and helicopters.