Universal Avionics Working With Chicago Jet Group On The Program

Universal Avionics announces the completion of the first customer installation of the UniLink UL-80X Communication Management Unit (CMU). FAA Supplemental Type Certificate (STC) is anticipated to be awarded to Chicago Jet Group this month for this installation of Universal Avionics’ third generation Airborne Datalink System, UniLink UL-801, on a Dassault Falcon 50 aircraft.

Interfaced with dual UNS-1Lw Flight Management Systems (FMS) and International Communications Group’s (ICG) ICS-220A Iridium Communications System, this installation provides the flight crew with a global voice channel and a dedicated datalink channel to support ACARS, Future Air Navigation System (FANS) 1/A+ messaging, and Controller Pilot Data Link Communications (CPDLC). Installation and operational approval of FANS is a key benefit for the customer, as the aircraft frequently flies the North Atlantic Track System. 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 aircraft will also be equipped for the upcoming mandates in that airspace, as well as those in European airspace.

“Universal is very enthused to be a partner in this key STC integration effort with Chicago Jet Group,” said Bruce Bunevich, Great Lakes Regional Sales Manager for Universal Avionics. “This demonstrates Universal and Chicago Jet Group’s continuing commitment to provide the avionics leadership required to meet global FANS standards, in an innovative and integrated solution,” he added.

“At Chicago Jet Group, we are very excited to be working closely with Universal Avionics and ICG to be the first installation facility to bring the UL-801 into the retrofit market when it is really needed by operators that will be flying in the NAT airspace, as well as in the Euro controlled airspace,” said Mike Mitera, Owner of Chicago Jet Group. “This equipment is the only product available by all the major avionics manufactures that is going to give operators the time required to complete the installation of the equipment and gain the operational approvals needed to meet the regulatory mandates before they are implemented. It will allow us to keep on operating our Falcon 50 for the next decade and beyond without having to compromise the preferred aircraft flight profiles it was designed to operate within," he added.

FMI: www.uasc.com/products/unilink