Bombardier Aerospace announced today that it is now offering a Wide Area Augmentation System (WAAS) capable Flight Management System (FMS) on Learjet 40 XR and Learjet 45 XR aircraft. The new system is available as a Supplemental Type Certificate (STC) for in-service Learjet 40, Learjet 40 XR, Learjet 45 and Learjet 45 XR aircraft customers and will also be offered as an option on new aircraft.

Provided by Universal Avionics Systems Corporation (UASC), WAAS enhances navigation capabilities through the use of a network of ground reference stations collecting global positioning system (GPS) satellite data. This data is broadcast to user aircraft through two or more geostationary satellite communication links. The aircraft uses the WAAS signal, in addition to the GPS service to fly area navigation and localize performance with vertical guidance (LPV) instrument approaches. LPV approaches offer pilots lower landing minimums, resulting in more flexibility for landing decisions.

The WAAS system is managed by various representatives from the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) and the aerospace industry. The FAA recently announced that a total of 1,390 new WAAS approach locations are available and capable of allowing Learjet operators to utilize this system. Currently it is only available for North America.

WAAS can be installed at all Bombardier Aerospace Service Center locations. Operators should contact their Bombardier regional manager for additional details.