Bell Helicopter has selected a variety of Honeywell avionics for its light-twin Model 429, highlighted by the new solid-state KSG-7200 air-data attitude heading reference system (ADAHRS). Derived from Honeywell air transport and business jet technology, the system features miniaturized electromechanical sensors (MEMS) rather than legacy spinning gyros and accelerometers.

Thus it offers superior accuracy and stability without the need for GPS updating. The KSG-7200, said Honeywell, is a dual-channel system combining attitude and heading with altitude, altitude rate, airspeed and outside air temperature in a single box. Solid-state pressure transducers serve the air-data functions. With all components working together, each channel’s central-processing unit and sensors collect, share and compare information. Isolated low-speed transmitters continuously communicate AHRS data to ensure high sensor accuracy. This architecture also enables the ADAHRS to reinitialize in flight for added safety.

The selection by Bell is the first helicopter contract award for Honeywell’s MEMS-based ADAHRS, featured at Booth No. 1907. FAA certification for use on the 429 is expected this year. The KSG-7200 will be standard, while Bell will offer Honeywell ADF, radar altimeter, weather radar and EGPWS as options.