Parker Aerospace flight controls certified on G650

The fly-by-wire actuation system developed by Parker Aerospace, a business segment of Parker Hannifin Corporation has been certified as part of the type certificate Gulfstream received from the FAA for its Gulfstream G650 business jet.

Gulfstream and the Parker Aerospace Control Systems Division have been working together since the program’s launch to design and certify the G650’s fully digital, fly-by-wire flight control system, which includes the world’s first three-axis business aircraft electric backup hydrostatic actuation (EBHA) subsystem.

EBHAs are electrically controlled actuators that are primarily hydraulically powered by one of the G650’s two hydraulic systems, with electric power as a backup. The EBHA subsystem is self-contained, operating in the event of certain failure conditions, essentially eliminating the need for a third hydraulic system found in traditional aircraft system architectures. These actuators provide enhanced aircraft safety and flight control availability because of the different power sources.

The G650’s fly-by-wire flight control system delivers many benefits, including flight-envelope protection, passenger comfort, increased redundancy, and reduced maintenance. As noted by Gulfstream in a recent statement, “the system is the result of extensive testing, leading to a redundant fly-by-wire system that exceeds certification requirements.”

“Parker is thrilled to have its components on the now-certified Gulfstream G650,” said Parker Aerospace vice president of operations Greg Crowe. “We are proud to be a part of this game-changing aircraft and showing what our advanced, fly-by-wire flight controls can achieve.”

When flight with EBHA mode was completed, Gulfstream senior vice president of Programs, Engineering, and Test Pres Henne said, “The system performed flawlessly. There was no difference in handling qualities between the electrically and hydraulically powered modes.”