L-3 Avionics Systems announced today that RUAG Aerospace has selected the GH-3100 Electronic Standby Instrument System (ESIS) and PS-835 Emergency Power Supply as standard equipment on the Dornier 228 New Generation (NG) aircraft, an updated variant of the Dornier 228. RUAG is resuming production of the model with a modern avionics package and improved performance capabilities. Deliveries are slated for 2010.

"With the GH-3100, pilots will have a reliable standby system that provides information in a layout that matches the primary flight display – it makes the transition to backup instruments seamless," said Larry Riddle, vice president of business development for L-3 Avionics Systems. "A global support network and proven reliability make it an ideal choice for an internationally operated, multi-role aircraft like the Dornier 228 NG."

Designed to replace conventional electro-mechanical standby attitude, airspeed and altitude instruments, the solid-state GH-3100 ESIS is capable of providing all three functions, plus heading, slip/skid, navigation data and vertical speed in a single three-inch flat-panel display. The GH-3100 features an integrated air data sensor card with pitot static connections directly to the unit, which eliminates the need for a remote mounted air data computer. An Active Matrix Liquid Crystal Display (AMLCD) provides exceptional readability in direct sunlight as well as dark cockpit environments. The system has the ability to interface with the aircraft's navigation systems, providing more interfaces and flexibility than any other standby on the market today.

The Dornier 228 NG is a 19-passenger turboprop aircraft with short takeoff and landing (STOL) capabilities. Improvements over the previous version include a quieter five-blade propeller that increases in-flight and takeoff performance, and an advanced glass-cockpit avionics package. Planned roles for the new model are primarily in regional transport as well as in support of coastal, environmental and border control tasks.