Why Upgrade Your Avionics

Avionics technology evolves rapidly. Cockpit systems that were state-of-the-art a decade ago are now outdated — lacking the capabilities required by modern airspace regulations, missing safety features available in newer systems, and costing more to maintain as parts become scarce. At the same time, cabin connectivity and entertainment systems have become expected amenities for passengers accustomed to constant connectivity on the ground.

Avionics upgrades are also driven by regulatory mandates. ADS-B Out, FANS/CPDLC for oceanic operations, 8.33 kHz channel spacing in European airspace — these are not optional upgrades but mandatory requirements that must be met to operate in certain airspace. Failure to comply results in route restrictions, delays, and in some cases inability to operate at all.

Beyond compliance, avionics upgrades directly impact aircraft value. A pre-owned business jet with a modern glass cockpit, current navigation database capability, and satellite communications will command a significant premium over an identically-equipped aircraft with legacy avionics. The upgrade investment often yields a positive return on resale.

Cockpit Avionics

Glass Cockpit Upgrades

Replacing legacy electromechanical instruments with modern glass cockpit displays improves situational awareness, reduces pilot workload, and enhances safety. Popular glass cockpit solutions include:

• Garmin G5000: Integrated flight deck for Citation Excel/XLS, Citation Sovereign, and other Cessna models. Touchscreen controllers, synthetic vision, and integrated FMS.
• Collins Pro Line Fusion: Advanced avionics suite for Bombardier Challenger, Global series, and other platforms. IntuVue weather radar, head-up display compatibility, and advanced navigation.
• Honeywell Primus Epic: Comprehensive avionics system for Gulfstream, Dassault, and Embraer platforms. Synthetic vision, terrain awareness, and integrated data link.
• Universal Avionics InSight: Retrofit glass cockpit display system available as an upgrade for numerous legacy aircraft types.

ADS-B Out/In Compliance

Automatic Dependent Surveillance-Broadcast (ADS-B) has been mandatory in most controlled airspace since 2020 (FAA) and is progressively being required in European airspace under EASA regulations. ADS-B Out transmits your aircraft's precise position, altitude, and velocity to air traffic control and other aircraft. ADS-B In allows your aircraft to receive traffic and weather information directly in the cockpit.

If your aircraft does not yet have ADS-B Out compliance, it is restricting your access to controlled airspace. Plane Selection can coordinate a compliant ADS-B installation, typically combined with a transponder upgrade to a Mode S transponder with Extended Squitter capability.

FANS and CPDLC

Future Air Navigation System (FANS) and Controller-Pilot Data Link Communications (CPDLC) are required for operations on North Atlantic tracks and in other oceanic airspace. These systems allow pilots and controllers to communicate via text data link rather than HF radio, improving accuracy and reducing workload.

FANS 1/A+ capability is mandatory for North Atlantic operations above FL290. For aircraft operating transatlantic or transpacific routes, FANS/CPDLC is not optional — it is a mission requirement.

Enhanced Vision and Synthetic Vision

Enhanced Vision Systems (EVS) and Synthetic Vision Systems (SVS) provide pilots with improved awareness in reduced visibility conditions. EVS uses infrared cameras to display real-time imagery of the terrain and runway environment. SVS creates a computer-generated 3D representation of the terrain from GPS and database information. These systems can be combined (Combined Vision Systems — CVS) for maximum situational awareness.

FAA has approved operational credits for EVS-equipped aircraft, allowing lower approach minimums at certain airports — a significant operational benefit in areas with frequent low-visibility conditions.

Cabin Systems

WiFi and Connectivity

Cabin WiFi has become an expected amenity in business aviation. Multiple satellite-based connectivity solutions are available:

• Gogo AVANCE L5: Air-to-ground connectivity (North America) providing broadband speeds for email, web browsing, and video conferencing
• Viasat Ka-band: Global satellite connectivity with speeds comparable to home broadband. Streaming, video calls, and multi-device support.
• SmartSky Networks: 4G LTE air-to-ground network providing high-speed, low-latency connectivity over the continental United States
• Inmarsat Jet ConneX: Ka-band satellite system providing global coverage with high throughput and reliable connectivity for business applications
• Starlink Aviation: Low-earth orbit satellite constellation providing high-speed, low-latency internet connectivity with global coverage

Cabin Management Systems

Modern cabin management systems integrate lighting, temperature, window shades, entertainment, and communications into a single interface — typically controlled via touchscreens or passengers' personal devices. Popular systems include Collins Aerospace Venue, Honeywell Ovation Select, and custom solutions from specialist integrators.

In-Flight Entertainment

From high-definition monitors and surround sound to streaming media servers and satellite television, in-flight entertainment upgrades transform the passenger experience. We coordinate complete entertainment system installations including displays, speakers, media servers, Blu-ray players, and content management systems.

The Upgrade Process

1. Consultation: We assess your current avionics configuration, discuss your operational requirements and desired capabilities, and identify the upgrade options available for your aircraft type.
2. Solution design: We work with avionics manufacturers and installation facilities to design a solution that meets your requirements within your budget. This includes evaluating STC availability, installation complexity, and downtime requirements.
3. Quotation: We obtain detailed quotes from qualified installation facilities, including parts, labor, STC license fees, and any required certification costs. We negotiate on your behalf to ensure competitive pricing.
4. Scheduling: We coordinate the installation timeline to minimize aircraft downtime. Where possible, we schedule avionics work to coincide with other maintenance events.
5. Installation oversight: During installation, we monitor progress, address any issues that arise, and ensure the work meets manufacturer specifications and regulatory requirements.
6. Certification: We ensure all installations are properly documented and certified per FAA or EASA requirements, including STC compliance, weight and balance updates, and flight manual supplements.
7. Crew training: We arrange training for your flight crew on the new systems, ensuring they are proficient before the aircraft returns to operational service.

Planning Your Avionics Upgrade

Contact Plane Selection to discuss your avionics requirements. Whether you need a mandatory compliance upgrade, a cockpit modernization, or a complete cabin connectivity solution, we will evaluate the options, recommend the best approach, and manage the project from start to finish.