The features and convenience fixed-wing operators take for granted with their Garmin glass panels are now available to the helicopter market. Garmin announced today that its G500H has received a supplementary type certificate from the FAA for Bell 206 and 407 models. The dual screen PFD/MFD was specifically designed to fit the limited panel space available in many helicopters but it maintains all the features that are now expected in new-release avionics..
The helicopter-specific G500H offers the option of having the PFD on the right side and the MFD on the left. In addition to all the usual instruments, the PFD features helicopter-specific displays like a vertical rate indicator. The MFD keeps track of the precise position of the aircraft along with all the charts and navaid information at the pilot’s fingertips. Synthetic vision is an option and the MFD also features an airborne application of the Garmin Safe Taxi feature that allows pilots to see where they’re going while maneuvering at busy airports.
