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Bell 407GXi Autopilot System Obtains Certification in UK

by Ben Mirwani
Bell 407GXi Autopilot System Obtains Certification in UK

Bell Textron Inc., announced that the Bell 407GXi 3-axis autopilot received certification from the United Kingdom’s Civil Aviation Authority (CAA).

The system provides a wide array of features, including a stability augmentation system and envelope protection that prevents over and under-speeding. 

The autopilot system comes in two and three-axis configurations, with the former comprising pitch control (altitude hold and IAS hold), and roll control (HDG hold, NAV, vertical navigation mode). The three-axis configuration comes equipped with an additional feature – yaw control. 

Patrick Moulay, senior vice president, International Sales, said receiving certification from the CAA is a big step for Bell as the system gives pilots a smoother and more efficient flying experience. 

“We are thrilled to offer the Bell 3-axis autopilot for the Bell 407GXi to our customers in the UK,” he said. “The system allows for decreased pilot workload and assistance in the event of inadvertent Instrument Meteorological Conditions (IIMC), overall increasing pilot comfort and ease over long distances.”

Customers who purchase the Bell 407GXi can have it retrofitted or specify whether they want the autopilot system’s two or three-axis configuration. 

The autopilot system is one of many technical features the Texas-based firm has incorporated into the Bell 407GXi as it comes with advanced Garmin avionics and a dual channel FADEC-controlled engine.

The six-passenger helicopter also offers pilots a comprehensive suite of situational awareness tools, including synthetic vision technology, traffic and weather displays, and a helicopter terrain avoidance warning system.

Currently, 1,500 Bell 407s are operating on all six continents, amassing over 6 million hours in flight time.

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