Alerts Sign-up
Dynon has announced the inclusion of a new Emergency Glide feature in its upcoming SkyView HDX Software version 17.1 and an upcoming software revision for its Advanced Flight Systems AF-500/6000 Series avionics. Dynon describes the feature as "potentially lifesaving" and aims to reduce workload "in a situation where pilots are easily overwhelmed."
With this new feature, the pilot can press and hold the nearest (NRST) button to automatically engage the autopilot, configuring it to a preprogrammed best-glide speed. Simultaneously, the avionics suite will locate the nearest airport within gliding distance, considering wind and terrain obstructions. "If the system finds a suitable airport," Dynon stated, "SkyView HDX will command the autopilot to navigate the aircraft to the airport immediately."
The system also automatically loads the airport identifier into the communications radio, providing all applicable radio frequencies. Upon arrival over the airport, the autopilot sets up a banked orbit over the site and alerts the pilot to take control of the aircraft.
