29 July 2003
Garmin have officially announced their G1000 integrated avionics suite. The system comprises of a 10” PFD screen plus another 10” or 15” MFD screen. The G1000 contains WAAS capable IFR approved GPS, Mode S transponder with traffic information system, VHF radios with 8.33khz spacing, RVSM compatible digital air data computers, a solid state altitude and heading reference system (AHRS), integrated digital weather radar, autopilot and terrain warning system.
One advantage of PFDs and MFDs is that they display complex information from multiple sources in an intuitive manner that is easy to assimilate. After a sneak preview of the G1000 we can tell you that there are quite a few innovative features to look forward to.
Garmin are aiming for certification of the G1000 in late 2003 with the first deliveries to airframe manufacturers in early 2004. The G1000 has been chosen by Cessna for their Citation Mustang, and by Diamond for their DA42 Twin Star. With Cirrus Design now offering glass cockpits as standard on their aircraft and this announcement from Garmin. GA can expect to see modern glass cockpit avionics shipping on the vast majority of new aircraft within the near future.
Garmin have also announced their purchase of the UPS AT the avionics division of United Parcel Services for $38m in cash. The deal is expected to conclude in the third quarter of 2003, with UPS AT being renamed Garmin AT and continuing as wholly owned subsidiary.
<a href=”http://www.garmin.com” target=”_blank”>More information</a>
