Bombardier, Rolls-Royce launch enhanced health monitoring for Global 5500, 6500

Bombardier and Rolls-Royce have combined their aircraft and engine monitoring technologies into a single integrated health monitoring programme for Global 5500 and 6500 operators.

The system pairs Bombardier’s Smart Link Plus aircraft health monitoring box with Rolls-Royce’s new engine vibration and health monitoring unit (EVHMU) for the Pearl 15 engine, giving operators and maintenance teams access to approximately 10,000 engine performance parameters in addition to broader aircraft data.

Both systems are now factory-installed on all new production Global 5500 and 6500 aircraft.

“The integration of Smart Link Plus with Rolls-Royce’s engine vibration and health monitoring unit will allow our Global 5500 and 6500 customers to seamlessly benefit from enhanced end-to-end data services that help optimise aircraft performance and reliability while continuing to keep maintenance costs in check,” said Anthony Cox, vice president, customer support, Bombardier. “This advanced service offering is a first in business aviation.”

The Rolls-Royce EVHMU automatically transmits engine data during and after each flight to Rolls-Royce’s 24/7 Business Aviation Aircraft Availability Centre, enabling predictive maintenance and early warning of potential issues before they cause disruption.

“Our work on cloud-based analytics, smart algorithms, and artificial intelligence and even bi-directional communication continue to play an increasing role in delivering the most comprehensive service program in business aviation – and our new engine vibration and health monitoring unit of the Pearl 15 is the key to unlock those capabilities,” said Andy Robinson, SVP services, Business Aviation at Rolls-Royce.

Smart Link Plus currently operates on approximately 450 Bombardier aircraft and carries a 99% renewal rate among existing operators.