Aspen Avionics and Cobham announced today that the companies are working together to enable the Aspen EFD1000 to directly interface to the S-TEC 55X and 60-series autopilot computers for altitude pre-select, autopilot mode, and flight director functionality. This expanded integration means overall reduced equipment cost for Cobham autopilot customers installing their systems in conjunction with Aspen displays. The integration package is expected to receive FAA approval by Fall 2011. Pricing will be announced at the Sun 'n Fun Fly-in in Lakeland, Florida.

This joint development will result in the S-TEC autopilot modes and flight director annunciations being displayed on the Evolution Primary Flight Display instead of on the separate S-TEC mode annunciator. The integration will also give the EFD1000 the means to perform altitude pre-select functions that are currently provided by S-TEC's optional altitude pre-selector for the 55X and 60-series autopilots.

"We are pleased to be working with Aspen on this effort. Our companies have similar philosophies about working with industry leaders to provide customer focused solutions," said Greg Plantz, Director, Business Development for Cobham. "This open collaboration really gives the customer the best value when it comes to upgrading their avionics."

"Building affordable glass panel systems and giving customers the most value for their money is extremely important to Aspen," said Brad Hayden, Aspen's Vice President of Marketing. "Collaborating with Cobham is a positive step for the market because it combines the proven, and popular, S-TEC flight control technology with Aspen's robust flight display system. We feel that customers will definitely appreciate the cost savings and streamlined operations of this integrated solution."