Airbus has signed an agreement with Canada's largest airline, Air Canada, for a significant cockpit and avionics system upgrade package for its A320-family in-service aircraft.
The multi-year upgrade programme encompasses the enhanced electronic instrument system (EEIS2), head-up display (HUD), and various other avionics functions. It will be fitted on up to 76 aircraft. The HUD will enhance situational awareness and improve airport accessibility during adverse weather conditions. The EEIS2 displays offer heightened reliability and enable the incorporation of the latest function displays. Pilot comfort is notably enhanced with the EEIS2, providing better information display through its high-resolution LCD screen and introducing new system capabilities and features. SBAS landing system (SLS), FMS landing system (FLS), and GBAS landing system (GLS) will also contribute to swifter and more extensive airport accessibility.
“These key enhancements to the avionics on our Airbus A320 family will result in a modernised flight deck environment consistent with our other fleets, as well as additional capabilities comparable to the latest generation of aircraft, such as the A321XLR that Air Canada will be introducing to its fleet. HUDs on the A320 family will further increase fleet harmonisation across all our aircraft types, and the EEIS2 displays presenting enhanced data will bring additional operational efficiencies and reliability,” said Murray Strom, Senior Vice President, Flight Operations and Maintenance at Air Canada.
In addition to these new system capabilities, the upgrade programme will maximise fleet commonality with newer aircraft and facilitate cost rationalisation for maintenance, spares and flight operations.
Thales, among other suppliers, manufactures the EEIS2, HUD and other avionics equipment, which are integrated by Airbus. Airbus will furnish the requisite service bulletins and installation kits, as well as on-site engineering support.
