Future versions of Honeywell’s integrated primary flight display (IPFD) may include 3-D airport maps that would give pilots a clear view of the entire airport surface whatever the weather or time of day, the company has revealed.

“We are exploring a future functionality expansion for IPFD, and when those features are fully defined we believe it will further increase pilot situational awareness during airport operations,” said Bob Smith, vice president for advanced technology.

Honeywell is testing the new airport map functionality in simulators and on company aircraft so that feedback from flight crews can be incorporated. “Only when we are satisfied with the technology readiness level and our customers tell us we have got it right will we bring it to market,” Smith said.

Meanwhile, Honeywell has received technical standard order (TSO) approval for the enhanced avionics system (EASy) flight deck it developed for the Dassault Falcon 7X, and for the latest “Phase IV” version of its Primus Epic control display system/retrofit (CDS/R).

The Primus Epic-based integrated 7X flight deck builds on the EASy currently in the Falcon 900EX and 2000EX to meet the latest Falcon’s specific requirements, including fly-by-wire flight controls and new aircraft system interfaces.

It includes improved flight guidance systems, simplified control of communication, navigation and flight management systems, interactive pilot checklists and navigation functions, a comprehensive crew resource management system and centralized aircraft maintenance functions for all systems.

The Phase IV version of CDS/R will improve the current multifunction display and flight management system interface functionality, enabling it to display electronic charts and maps and satellite-based weather information through the addition of the advanced file graphics server that is due to be available in the third quarter of this year.

“CDS/R brings a number of advantages to operators desiring a high level of avionics integration in their aircraft,” said Chad Cundiff, Honeywell vice president for crew interface applications. “CDS/R ultimately increases safety of flight and enhances the overall aircraft value.”

EASy also has an impact in the cabin. “Honeywell’s air management system with more than 40 control loops versus the typical five or six provides the Falcon 7X with unprecedented levels of zone temperature control,” said Victor Valente, vice president of Dassault’s business segment. “The system is also linked to the flight deck, so it knows where you are going and will automatically adjust the cabin pressure to match the altitude of your destination.”

The system uses Honeywell patented engine bleed flow balancing and Dassault’s patented cabin air jet pumps to continuously optimize the amount of bleed air drawn in to the absolute minimum, for reduced fuel burn, longer range and better engine reliability.