Honeywell introduces Mandarin language in helicopter cockpit warning system

BEIJING - Honeywell Aerospace has introduced Mandarin language in a safety system for helicopter cockpits, the enhanced ground proximity warning system (EGPWS), the Asia-Pacific headquarters of Honeywell said Wednesday.

The Federal Aviation Administration has approved Mandarin language use in Honeywell's EGPWS.

Honeywell said that they are the first company to obtain non-English-language approval for alerts in helicopter cockpits.

"EGPWS is one of the biggest success stories in the history of aviation. The Mandarin-language version of EGPWS will be of huge benefit to native Chinese-speaking pilots," said Andy Gill, senior director on the Business and General Aviation of Asia-Pacific Honeywell Aerospace.

Developed by Honeywell in 1996, EGPWS functions as an independent monitor of an aircraft's position relative to surrounding terrain.

The system protects aircraft against Controlled Flight Into Terrain, such as mountains or buildings, and potential runway incursions or overruns.

"It marks a significant milestone for Honeywell and the aviation industry worldwide, as the breakthrough unlocks the potential for Honeywell to work on additional language alerts for EGPWS in the future," Gill said, adding that it will benefit users in other markets.

The approval will help reduce cognitive workloads for native Chinese-speaking pilots by increasing recognition of warnings, providing a proven and potentially lifesaving performance for helicopter pilots.

In May 2016, China's State Council announced new guidelines for the development of the country's general aviation industry. The country is expected to see more than 500 general aviation airports and 5,000 general aviation aircraft by 2020.

"With the approval of Mandarin EGPWS, Honeywell is well positioned to support the growth of China's general aviation industry by offering Chinese helicopter pilots enhanced flight safety and efficiency", Gill said.