By Rebecca Rayko
AWN Editor

NEW ORLEANS - Honeywell introduced its new integrated avionics system for general aviation at NBAA 2000.

Under the banner name APEX, Honeywell says it's developing a system that will display flight information in life-like graphics designed to make instrument flying more like clear-weather flying.

APEX, the result of Honeywell's Project Echo which was announced earlier this year to develop the next generation of general aviation avionics, will be available in versions for single and multiengine piston aircraft, as well as helicopters, turboprops and light jets.

APEX also features new integrated electronic attitude, heading and air data sensors and central control of radios, flight controls and safety systems. To make the leap from traditional systems, Honeywell has adopted many of the technologies for business jets, the Boeing 777 and the space shuttle into APEX, says John Uczekaj, vice president/general manager of business, regional and general aviation avionics.

APEX will use a new visual reference technology called Visual Cueing and Control and provides an "out-the-window" type picture showing the horizon in the distance and a life-like view of the ground passing under the airplane.

Significant features such as runways appear in the picture where they would appear if the pilot were actually looking at them. VC2 improves the pilot's situational awareness by eliminating the need to continuously interpret a variety of dials to form a mental picture of the aircraft's position. Some traditional symbology, such as compass presentation and degrees-of-pitch markings, remain to make the transition easier for current pilots.

Three versions of APEX will be marketed: the APEX 1000 for basic single-engine airplanes and helicopters; APEX 2000 for high-end singles and multi-engine airplanes and helicopters; and APEX 9000 for turboprops and light business jets.