30 April, 2019:With the help of Collins Aerospace Systems technology, General Atomics Aeronautical Systems (GA-ASI) recently succeeded in the first complete takeoff to landing flight of a MQ-9B SkyGuardian Remotely Piloted Aircraft (RPA) using GA-ASI's Certifiable Ground Control Station (CGCS). The flight took place at the Yuma Proving Grounds in Yuma, Arizona.
The Collins Aerospace Pro Line Fusion integrated avionics system played an important role as part of the interface for the flight's ground control station. Pilots can take advantage of the systems' intuitive operator interface and touchscreen map, reducing workload with a Federal Aviation Administration (FAA)-certified solution.
"We're seeing the flexibility of Pro Line Fusion avionics shine in this programme," said Vice President and General Manager, Training and Mission Solutions for Collins Aerospace, Brad Haselhorst. "Pro Line Fusion is making the path toward certified operation of UAS within the National Airspace System simpler for our customers."
The main focus of Collins Aerospace is to develop technologies for safe and routine operation of UAS in civil airspace. Solutions range from civil certified datalinks and integrated flight controls, to flight critical hardware and software that allow airworthiness for wider access to airspace. Integration of Pro Line Fusion into UAS ground control stations helps to bring together a multitude of data inputs such as weather, mission data, airspace information, Search and Rescue (SAR) pattern flight management and Notice to Airmen (NOTAM) notifications, offering real-time mission optimisation and a common operating picture for the operator.