FreeFlight Systems announces that AeroMech Incorporated’s FAA STC ODA has issued a Supplemental Type Certificate (STC) for the installation of FreeFlight Systems’ TERRAIN Series Radar Altimeters on MD-80 and DC-9 aircraft. This approval marks a significant advancement in aviation safety and addresses the need to modernize legacy aircraft with 5G-resilient radar altimetry solutions.
The TERRAIN Series Radar Altimeters, including the RA-6500 and RA-5500 models, are engineered to mitigate spurious 5G interference, ensuring precise altitude readings vital for safe flight operations. Both models offer analog output interfaces and a multi-interface design supporting RS-485/422, RS-232, and ARINC 429, enabling integration for legacy aircraft and modern glass cockpits. With the integration of advanced Digital Signal Processing (DSP) technology and robust internal RF filters, these systems deliver outstanding reliability and performance in diverse operational environments, including challenging weather conditions and areas with dense 5G communications.
“We were eager to receive STC approval for the installation of the TERRAIN Series Radar Altimeters,” said Dave Doucette, President of AMI Aviation Services. “This collaboration with FreeFlight Systems not only enhances the safety of legacy aircraft, allows our customers to comply with the 5G tolerance Airworthiness Directive, but also reflects our commitment to embracing advanced technologies across all aircraft sectors.”
AMI Aviation Services, a Part 145 repair station and wholly owned subsidiary of AeroMech, formed a strategic collaboration with a prominent Midwest-based cargo operator to equip its MD-80 fleet with FreeFlight’s RA-6500 radar altimeters. This partnership underscores AMI’s dedication to improving safety and operational efficiency within the cargo aviation sector.
Shane LaPlante, Vice President of Sales and Marketing at FreeFlight Systems, remarked, “The approval of the TERRAIN Series Radar Altimeters for MD-80 and DC-9 aircraft represents a major milestone. By integrating cutting-edge technology that effectively addresses 5G interference into legacy aircraft, we ensure that pilots can depend on precise altitude readings, which are vital for safe operations. Our steadfast dedication to safety and reliability fuels our initiatives, and we take pride in collaborating with AMI Aviation Services on this significant endeavor.”
Modernizing legacy aircraft with contemporary avionics is critical for sustaining safety standards, particularly as new technologies like global 5G communications are introduced. By adopting FreeFlight Systems’ TERRAIN Series, operators can achieve compliance with the latest airworthiness regulations, thereby significantly improving overall fleet safety.
AMI Aviation Services invites aircraft operators to contact its team for the installation of the TERRAIN Series Radar Altimeters. AMI holds a Part 145 repair station and Part 21 PMA so it can offer kits and comprehensive installation services to ensure seamless integration and compliance with FAA regulations.
About AeroMech Incorporated and AMI Aviation Services, LLC
AeroMech / AMI Aviation Services provide turnkey solutions for avionics, in-flight connectivity, and other aircraft systems to aviation customers worldwide. By utilizing FAA delegations as an STC ODA, Part 21 PMA, and Part 145 repair station, AeroMech / AMI can provide a dynamic and efficient one-stop approach to designing, integrating, testing, and certifying the latest and most desirable technology into your aircraft.
AeroMech Incorporated holds FAA STC Organization Designation Authorization (“ODA”) and provides engineering, flight test, and certification services for Wi-Fi, RVSM, and Avionics systems to commercial airlines, OEMs, MROs and military customers worldwide. AeroMech has completed over 250 STCs and 400 flight tests since its inception in 1995. For more information, visit www.aeromechinc.com, or contact AeroMech at +1 425.252.3236.
AMI Aviation Services, LLC, a wholly owned subsidiary of AeroMech Incorporated, is an FAA Part 145 Repair Station (#6A5R818B) that offers Avionics system upgrades at the Orlando/Sanford International Airport (KSFB) and in Smyrna, TN (KMQY) just outside Nashville. AMI installation services can also be performed offsite with no geographical limitation utilizing its “Go Teams”.
AMI also has part 21 Parts Manufacturer Approval (PMA # PQ4017CE) specializing in the design, fabrication, and kitting of complex aircraft electrical harnesses, structural parts, and other installation kit components. For more information, visit www.amiaviation.com or contact AMI Aviation at +1 407.585.6130.
