Just ahead of EAA AirVenture 2021, Garmin released two products for the general aviation marketplace—one, Smart Glide, is a safety enhancement to engage during an engine power loss, while the other is an improved GI-275 engine indicator system.
When the pilot of a single-engine aircraft experiences a sudden power loss—whether instructor induced or for real—they must decide where to put the airplane down safely. Whether that’s into an empty field or a nearby airport, the task of deciding demands plenty of the pilot’s brain power. Enter Garmin’s Smart Glide, the newest addition the Autonomi family of landing safety products. In a news release, Garmin said, “Through compatible avionics, such as GTN Xi series navigators, Smart Glide provides assistance to the pilot by recommending a suitable airport estimated to be within glide range.” When Smart Glide is also paired with a compatible Garmin autopilot, it can automatically engage the autopilot that will pitch the aircraft for best glide speed while simultaneously navigating the aircraft the selected airport.
