Esterline Control Systems selected to supply cockpit controls for Embraer KC-390 military transport/tanker

Esterline Corporation, a leading specialty manufacturer serving aerospace/defense markets, today announced that its Sylmar-based Control Systems operation has been selected by Embraer Defense and Security to design and manufacture the rudder pedal stations, flap selectors, speed brake LRUs, landing gear levers, wheel tiller, and autobrake switch control panels for the KC-390 military transport/tanker program.

Michel Potvin, President of Esterline Control Systems said, "We are delighted to announce our increased participation on the KC-390 program and honored to grow our collaboration with Embraer. We value our strong relationship and I look forward to working with Embraer to deliver this new world class aircraft."

"Having selected Esterline to develop and supply these additional control devices brings synergy to our partnership and enhances the KC-390 human-machine interface," said Eduardo Bonini Santos Pinto, Sr. Vice President Operations & COO, Embraer Defense and Security.

Marketed under the Mason brand name, Esterline will be designing and manufacturing the controls in its Sylmar, Calif. facility. The rudder pedals enable the pilot to control the aircraft yaw rotation, and are used for steering and braking the aircraft on the ground. The flap selectors allow the pilot to select and lock the appropriate flap angle during flight, and the speed brake lever actuates the spoilers to slow the aircraft. The landing gear lever is used to control the extension and retraction of the aircraft landing gear. The wheel tiller allows the pilot to steer the airplane on ground during the taxi phase. The auto-brake switch enables the pilot to pre-set the desired amount of braking force upon landing. It is also used to activate the brakes automatically in the event of a rejected take-off (RTO mode).

The KC-390 is a multipurpose military aircraft for missions such as troop and cargo transport, air delivery, in-flight refueling, and medical evacuation. Deliveries to the Brazilian Air Force are expected to begin in late 2015.