Aspen Avionics announced the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has approved new software enabling integration of Garmin’s GFC600 digital autopilot with Aspen’s EFD1000 Pro MAX Primary Flight Display (PFD), selected altitude support for Trio and the Bendix/King AeroCruze 100 autopilots and extended runway centerlines on the MFD500/1000 MAX multi-function displays. Additionally, with the new software release the Evolution E5 Dual Electronic Flight Instrument (EFI) is now a TSO’d Electronic Flight Instrument System (EFIS).
The software unlock package for the Garmin GFC600 digital autopilot upgrade is now available for $1,995 through any Aspen Avionics authorized dealer.
Free features of the new software release (v2.12) also include extended runway centerlines on the Evolution MFD500/1000 MAX multi-function display(s) and is also available through any Aspen authorized dealer. Dealers may charge a fee to cover their labor for the software update.
“Aspen’s Pro MAX PFD coupled with the Garmin GFC600 autopilot enhances and expands the basic autopilot function and streamlines the controls, reducing workload and removes the need for some external adapters. When combined with all the features and benefits of Aspen’s glass panel technology, flying becomes easier and safer, especially for single pilot IFR missions,” said Mark Ferrari, vice president of sales and customer support. “We have been working diligently to ensure the owners who currently have a digital autopilot or are considering replacing their analog autopilot have a cost-effective, highly robust and easy-to-use glass display at an affordable price point.”