The Honda Aircraft Company has unveiled its new light twin-engine jet, the Elite II. This aircraft has become the first in its class to receive certification from the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) for the Garmin Emergency Autoland (EAL) system, as reported by Naked Science.
The EAL technology allows the aircraft to perform a fully autonomous landing in emergency situations.
The Garmin EAL system analyzes weather conditions, terrain, fuel levels, and runway parameters in real-time, enabling it to select the most suitable airport for landing. The device independently adjusts flight parameters, navigates, approaches for landing, and activates the brakes until coming to a complete stop.
The activation of the system can occur either manually (via a button) or automatically if the sensors detect a lack of response from the pilot. During this time, the system also informs air traffic control about the situation.
In addition to the emergency landing function, the Elite II is equipped with the Garmin Autothrottle system, which automatically adjusts engine operation modes at all stages of flight, ensuring optimal speed and fuel consumption.
Representatives from Honda Aircraft noted that the use of the EAL and Autothrottle systems significantly reduces the workload on the crew, allowing a single pilot to safely operate the aircraft. The company is currently working on certifying these technologies in other significant aviation markets around the world.
