The CAA certification allows Bell to offer the system in the UK, providing decreased pilot workload and assistance in the event of IIMC, increasing pilot comfort, and ease over long distances.
Bell Textron Inc. has announced that the Bell 407GXi 3-axis autopilot has received certification from the United Kingdom’s Civil Aviation Authority (CAA). This certification allows the company to offer the system to its customers in the UK, providing decreased pilot workload and assistance in the event of inadvertent Instrument Meteorological Conditions (IIMC), ultimately increasing pilot comfort and ease over long distances.
The Bell 407GXi autopilot system is available in two and three-axis configurations. The two-axis version includes pitch control (altitude hold, IAS hold) and roll control (HDG hold, NAV, vertical navigation mode), while the three-axis option adds yaw control. In addition, the system is equipped with a stability augmentation system to automatically recover the aircraft to near-level flight attitude at all speeds in the event of an adverse roll or pitch.
“We are thrilled to offer the Bell 3-axis autopilot for the Bell 407GXi to our customers in the UK,” said Patrick Moulay, Senior Vice President of International Sales at Bell Textron Inc. “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,” he further added.
Furthermore, the system offers stability engagement throughout all phases of flight and envelope protection to prevent over-speeding and under-speeding. Owners can specify the autopilot system on the new Bell 407GXis or have the system retrofitted.
The Bell 407GXi, with its autopilot, advanced Garmin avionics, and dual-channel FADEC-controlled engine, continues to set high standards for single-engine aircraft with its advanced technical features. With 1,500 Bell 407s operating across all six continents totaling more than six million flight hours, the company has a proven track record of reliability and innovation.
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In conclusion, the certification of the Bell 407GXi 3-axis autopilot by the United Kingdom’s Civil Aviation Authority marks a significant milestone for Bell Textron Inc. and its customers. The system’s advanced features provide increased safety, comfort, and ease of use, setting a new standard for single-engine aircraft. Bell Textron Inc. continues to innovate and set the bar higher for aviation technology, delivering reliable and advanced solutions to meet the needs of its customers.
