Virgin Blue selects Rockwell Collins avionics for new B737 NG fleet

Virgin Blue Airlines has selected the entire suite of Rockwell Collins' scaleable avionics for its new fleet order of Boeing 737 NG airplanes (50 firm, plus 25 options; 25 purchase rights).

The full suite of communication, navigation and surveillance systems features Rockwell Collins' newest SAT-2200 satellite communication (SATCOM) offering, as well as its proven MultiScan™ Threat Detection System, TTR-2100 Traffic Avoidance System (TCAS) and GLU-925 Multi-Mode Receiver (MMR).

With this award, Virgin Blue is the first airline to select the Rockwell Collins SAT-2200 SATCOM system, which integrates traditionally separate avionics and cabin functionality into a single unit that provides classic aero services and broadband services.

"Virgin Blue has selected the right combination of next generation avionics solutions that will provide increased operational efficiency and safety benefits, as well as a smoother, more enjoyable ride for their passengers," said Jeff Standerski, vice president and general manager, Air Transport Systems for Rockwell Collins. "For example, the Rockwell Collins SAT-2200 system meets passengers' connectivity needs during flight and provides countless cockpit communication advantages over previous generations."

Details about avionics package selected by Virgin Blue:

SAT-2200 is designed to maintain communications without pilot intervention during all flight phases while also connecting passengers to broadband services. SAT-2200 complies with the latest ARINC 781 industry standard for Inmarsat SATCOM capability for classic Aeronautical, Swift64 and SwiftBroadband operation.

• WRT-2100 MultiScan™ Threat Detection System is a fully automatic, hands-free airborne radar system. MultiScan provides optimal clutter-free weather displays that reduce pilot workload and enhance safety and passenger comfort by minimizing unexpected turbulence encounters.
• TTR-2100 is a traffic computer-capable TCAS derived from Rockwell Collins' integrated surveillance product line, which offers technology that can adapt to the evolving air traffic management requirements. The system enhances situational awareness of traffic situations by detecting and displaying potential collision threats.
• The advanced GLU-925 MMR provides the aircraft's primary position, velocity and time reference, and enables precision landing capability. It is the first MMR certified for precision landing using either Global Navigation Satellite Systems (GNSS) or Instrument Landing Systems (ILS) allowing for more precision landings as well as en route and non-precision approaches.