Certification flight testing for Genesys cockpit suite on Black Hawks
Aviation companies Genesys Aerosystems and XP Services commenced certification flight testing, marking the final phase in the certification process of the Genesys avionics suite for the UH-60A and EH-60A Black Hawk
After many months of ground and flight testing, XP Services and Genesys Aerosystems are testing the final version of the cockpit architecture to achieve the FAA STC (Federal Aviation Administration Supplemental Type Certificate) this summer.
The Genesys avionics suite in the Black Hawk comprises of four MIL-STD qualified IDU-680s, dual GPS receivers, dual digital COM/NAV radios, and 3-Axis IFR HeliSAS Stability Augmentation System and Autopilot. At the heart of the NVG-compatible avionics suite is the IDU-680 featuring redundant Flight Management System, radio/audio management, and Helicopter Terrain Awareness and Warning System.
Nick Bogner, Director of Business Development at Genesys, said: “With more Black Hawks becoming available for a variety of special missions, offering an alternative to the costly – and increasingly unsustainable – legacy avionics is critical for fleet longevity. The Genesys avionics suite offers a lower cost solution while increasing safety and mission capabilities. Additionally, with newer and more rugged avionics, operators can expect higher operational readiness rates, making this a compelling upgrade.”
Rod Allison, President of XP Services, added: “We are proud to bring this solution to market as the primary installer or through our partnerships around the world. With help from Genesys, we have been able to breathe new life into these airframes. The personalized service and support we’ve received from Genesys have been unparalleled. They’ve been with us every step of the way while we tailor the capable avionics suite to the Black Hawk platform.”