European aviators can now install Garmin’s GTN 650 and 750 GPS/navcom systems after EASA signed off the validation paperwork for the STC Garmin received from the FAA in March for the touchscreen navigators. To achieve EASA’s validation, the Garmin 650 and 750 had to meet European regulatory requirements, such as 8.33-kHz VHF communication, immunity from FM radio broadcasts, B-Rnav, P-Rnav and optional Class-B TAWS.
Only a few months after entering the market, thousands of GTN-series systems have been installed, according to Garmin’s vice president of aviation sales and marketing Carl Wolf.
With such a strong entry to the market, chances are the GTN 650/750 will become as popular as their predecessors – the GNS 430W and GNS 530W. And the EASA validation comes just in time for the termination of GNS series production. Garmin has already stopped taking orders for the GNS 530W and will do the same for the GNS 430W sometime next year. PB/CSW
