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Universal Avionics and Chicago Jet Group (CJG) announce that CJG has received the long awaited, first FANS retrofit certification. CJG worked diligently with its partners and the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) to ensure that the first certified retrofit installation of a FANS 1/A+ / Controller-Pilot Datalink Communications (CPDLC) system over Iridium in a Dassault Mystere Falcon 50 was achieved. Several additional airframes are currently in-process at CJG for FANS retrofit installation and certification.
Chicago Jet Group installed Universal Avionics’ UniLink UL-801 Communications Management Unit (CMU) with internal VHF VDL Mode 2 receiver. Interfaced with dual UNS-1Lw Flight Management Systems (FMS) and International Communications Group’s (ICG) NxtLink ICS-220A Iridium Satcom, this installation provides the flight crew with a global voice channel and a dedicated datalink channel to support ACARS, FANS 1/A+ messaging and CPDLC. Universal Avionics’ CVR-120A Cockpit Voice Recorder (CVR) was also installed for required FANS datalink message recording.
This installation and certification is a key benefit for the customer, as the aircraft frequently flies in the North Atlantic Track System (NATS). Aircraft equipped and approved for FANS datalink gain access to the most desirable tracks when traveling across the Atlantic, which saves time and fuel. The installed system is also provisioned for the upcoming Eurocontrol Link 2000+ Programme mandates.
Mike Mitera, President of Chicago Jet Group, stated “The certification of this integrated retrofit system in the Falcon 50 entitles international operators to utilize the significant time and cost advantages offered by flying FANS preferred airspace. This solution provides a certified FANS system prior to the first mandate of February 5, 2015.”
“Universal Avionics proudly recognizes Chicago Jet Group’s efforts, working diligently to achieve the first FANS/CPDLC retrofit STC,” said Bruce Bunevich, Universal Avionics’ Great Lakes Regional Sales Manager. “We will continue to work together to provide NextGen avionics solutions for additional airframes,” he added.
Chicago Jet Group completes the turn-key FANS/CPDLC suite of services by offering training through their KOBEV International Inc. affiliate.
