Flight control systems are used to adjust and control the attitude and trajectory of an aircraft. In the past, original systems used cables to control all moving surfaces. Fly-By-Wire (FBW), is a fully electronic flight control system that replaces the conventional manual controls of an aircraft with an all-electronic interface. Instead of manually controlling an aircraft, a computer controls all the moveable surfaces, sending messages through digital cabling. Honeywell has long been a leading provider of FBW systems, with thousands of our FBW systems in commercial airliners today. We’ve recently developed a new system called the Honeywell Compact Fly-By-Wire System, which is lighter, smaller and as powerful as the original. So, why should you consider the new Compact Fly-By-Wire System?

Here are five reasons:

LightweightHoneywell’s Compact Fly-By-Wire System is small in size, weighs less and offers aircraft manufacturers more flexibility for aircraft design. It provides the power and capability of any other traditional system, in a smaller form factor. Plus, less weight means more fuel savings.

Increased SafetyOur system is founded on architectural principles, first applied in Air Transport FBW systems, to ensure all possible failures are passivated and redundant channels can seamlessly transfer control without disturbing aircraft control or relying on pilot heroics to recover the aircraft. FBW systems act as if the autopilot is always engaged, creating a safer flying experience. FBW can also provide envelope limiting, which controls the aircraft within a safe operating envelope even if a pilot becomes disoriented. This Compact Fly-By-Wire System is perfect for future Urban Air Mobility platforms as well, creating a stabilized flying experience for unmanned vehicles.

Suitable for Many AircraftThe Compact Fly-By-Wire System is suitable for any electric or hybrid aircraft and traditional Part 23 platforms.

Reduced Maintenance CostsEliminating your traditional cable control system will free up space throughout the aircraft. Implementing “cable-less” avionics will help reduce the costs not only through design, production and development but also for the all-inclusive maintenance and overhaul process.

Decades of ExperienceHoneywell has decades of experience designing flight control systems. Our systems are in the most advanced aircraft, including Boeing 787s, E1 Jets and COMAC C919s. In addition to designs, we also have the experience of integration and certification of FBW systems. Honeywell is one of the first companies to offer a truly compact FBW system for today’s market.