Tucson, Arizona-based Guardian Avionics on Tuesday received the first-ever FAA approval under the Non-Required Safety Enhancing Equipment (NORSEE) program to install noncertified products into certified aircraft. As outlined in PS-AIR-21.8-1602, Guardian is approved to mount all models of the Guardian Avionics iFDR panel mount line for the iPad and iPhone. The approval also allows all iFDR Power 150 and 250 USB power supplies to be added to Part 23 certified GA aircraft and Part 27 and 29 normal and transport category rotorcraft. Under the FAA authorization, the iFDR panel mounts and USB power supplies can also be installed as a minor alteration for Part 23, 27, and 29 aircraft and in all general aviation aircraft with a maximum takeoff weight of less than 12,500 pounds.
This translates into general aviation aircraft owners being able to legally add a panel-mounted iPad or iPhone, USB power supply, or a combination of both, as a means to enhance situational awareness and safety in certified aircraft. By eliminating cumbersome iPad and iPhone yoke or arm mounts, as well as the resulting mess of power cables and patched power supplies using 12V lighter plugs, certified aircraft owners can now experience cleaner and safer mounting and power options for their cockpits.
Ash Vij, president of Guardian Avionics, said, “We believe this is an important step in keeping GA safer for everyone while keeping ownership and maintenance costs under control for equipment that improves the environment for the pilot in older aircraft.”
