Garmin is upgrading the features and capabilities of its touchscreen GTN series navigators with the addition of optional Class A TAWS capability, ADS-B Out compatibility with third-party transponders and the ability for pilots to create custom messages on the GTN display. The enhancements are available now in new GTN units as well as through a free software update for current GTN owners.
Class A TAWS provides the highest level of terrain alerting capability by providing warnings for excessive closure rate, glideslope deviation and the threat of terrain impact when the aircraft is not in landing configuration. Class-A TAWS capability is mandated in certain large turbine-powered airplanes.
To help owners and operators meet ADS-B mandates around the world, Garmin is incorporating an “open industry” protocol to send information from the GTN to a compatible transponder. Garmin says the software update can help bridge the gap to compliance for operators who have already invested in a GTN and select third-party transponders.
Scheduled messaging in the GTN 650 and 750, meanwhile, can be configured to provide custom alerts on the display using a date and time reference, countdown timer, or periodic timer. For example, a “switch fuel tanks” message can be programmed as a helpful reminder in flight, Garmin says.
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