Honeywell to Supply AW101 Helicopter with Laseref VI Inertial Navigation System

Honeywell Aerospace is to supply the Finmeccanica-AgustaWestland AW101 helicopter with its Laseref VI Inertial Navigation System.

The advanced inertial navigation technology makes it easier for helicopter pilots to navigate with extreme accuracy, even with the loss of GPS satellite guidance, and brings new capabilities to the platform including greater precision and efficiency.

The new upgrade is available for future and in-service AW101 helicopters, and will be accessible to operators starting in 2016.

“The advanced technology behind the Laseref VI will bring a wealth of new functionality for AW101 helicopters,” said Steve Lien, vice president, Defense and Space International, Honeywell Aerospace. “Operators who select the platform will benefit from precise flying approaches not previously possible, and pilots will be able to achieve accurate positioning data and maximize safety during operations.”

Benefits of the Honeywell Laseref VI

AW101 operators flying Honeywell’s Laseref VI INS can take advantage of new capabilities including a RNP of 0.3 nautical miles with 100% availability. With this level of precision, operators can fly approaches not previously possible, including when GPS is temporarily interrupted. It also lays the foundation for them to obtain helicopter operational approval for RNP low-level operations.

Designed to withstand the hot and dusty conditions of rotorcraft operation, the Laseref VI offers a combined GPS/INS mode and an inertial-only mode. It uses ring laser gyro technology to provide pilots with incredibly accurate positioning data and maximized safety even during extended periods of operation.

The Laseref VI features Honeywell’s HIGH Step2 inertial-GPS hybrid functionality for improved RNP availability, and has an FAA Technical Standard Order that certifies it to the highest possible civilian standards.