Thales's Autopilot Solutions Overview
Thales, a leading aerospace technology company, offers cutting-edge autopilot solutions for both forward-fit and retrofit integration on civil and military aircraft and helicopters. These solutions are certified by respected aviation authorities such as the FAA and EASA, and are currently used on a wide range of aircraft across the globe. Thales's autopilot architecture is versatile and can be adapted to suit various aircraft designs, including commercial planes, regional jets, military aircraft, business jets, helicopters, and drones.
Range of Autopilot Solutions
Thales provides a comprehensive range of autopilot solutions, from individual equipment components to complete end-to-end autopilot systems. Additionally, Thales offers software solutions that can be integrated into existing computing devices. The components of Thales autopilot solutions include autopilot software applications that cover functions like stabilization, control, guidance modes, auto throttle, control panels, auto throttle assembly, actuators, probes and sensors, and computing devices.
Key Features of Thales Autopilot
Thales's autopilot systems come with a range of advanced features, including certification with TSO/ETSO, DAL A; precision approach modes up to ILS CATIIIB; and non-precision approach modes like LNAV, LNAV/VNAV, RNP-AR 0.3, LPV, and GLS. The systems also offer various protection features such as flight envelope protection, Alpha floor, speed protection, windshear escape guidance, TCAS/TAWS AP coupling, and sensor single sources. Moreover, Thales autopilots include auto throttle/auto thrust capabilities and military-specific modes like terrain following.
Efficient Development and Upgrades
Thales ensures efficient development of autopilot systems by employing certified processes, tools, early validation, and agile methods. This approach helps in delivering autopilot solutions on time and reduces risks associated with development. Thales also offers the ability to upgrade existing autopilots with additional functions like LPV capability, search & rescue features, and more.
Certifications and Regulatory Compliance
Thales is actively involved in key industry committees such as the Air Weather Operations Harmonization Aviation Rule Making Committee (AWOH ARC) to contribute to the development of aviation regulations. Thales ensures that its autopilot solutions comply with the latest airworthiness qualifications and certifications, keeping up with emerging technologies such as GLS, EVS, and SVS.
References and Platforms
Thales has a rich history in autopilot development, dating back to the Concorde supersonic aircraft. Today, Thales autopilots are utilized on major platforms like Airbus A300/A320/A330, ATR 42/72-600, BAE Nimrod, Bombardier DH8-400, Dassault Mirage, EADS-Casa 295, Indian Air Force Jaguar, Sukhoï Superjet Jet 100, Leonardo Helicopters, Bell, Airbus Helicopters, Sikorsky, and more. These autopilots have amassed billions of flight hours with high customer satisfaction.