View Full Version : Nav Aids on bizjets
LGS6753
30th Dec 2010, 09:54
It's evident that bizjets have not been landing in very low viz conditions whereas Boeing and Airbus airliners are. When some of these bizjets are apparently so well equipped, why is this?
dusk2dawn
30th Dec 2010, 11:22
CAT II/III requires the permission of the local competent authority.
And despite what exquisite equipment they put in the birds they still have to get an operator and crew certification.
And despite what exquisite equipment they put in the birds they still have to get an operator and crew certification.
Which can get to be quite expensive, considering the few times it might be required.
Ercos
30th Dec 2010, 17:17
dusk2dawn hit the nail on the head. Most bizjets or non-scheduled operators have yet to acquire the necessary authorizations to conduct Category II/III approaches. The synthetic visuals and FLIR on the new bizjets are incredible and like flying in day VMC all the time, but since this is all new technology often authorizing agencies will not allow its use for lower than 1200 ft RVR (or the metric equivalent) for landing.
These approaches have vigorous training and currency requirements and many non-scheduled and corporate operators have to weigh the investment in training costs. In some cases, such as the synthetic visual, many air agencies have yet to develop a standard for using the tool in low instrument approaches and thus it is only allowable to provide supplemental information.
galaxy flyer
9th Jan 2011, 19:52
Quite a few operators (US) do maintain Cat II capability, most bizjets from the Citations to the GLEX/G550 have the equipment, if the operator wants to pursue the approval.
To tell the truth, it just isn't necessary or practical. First, low weather isn't all that frequently a factor. We don't run "hub" operations so getting our passengers to the airport to make a connection isn't important or expensive cost, as it is in airline ops. Enhanced Vision Systems get us near CAT II in the US rules. Lastly, we operate at few airports where the ground installation is available. For example, NYC, we use KHPN or KTEB, instead of KEWR or KJFK where the CAT II/III ILS are located.
GF