Honeywell weather radar system certified in Brazil for Learjets

Honeywell’s IntuVue RDR-7000 Weather Radar System has been certified by Brazil’s National Civil Aviation Agency (ANAC) for use on Bombardier Learjet 40 and 45 aircraft. 

The IntuVue RDR-7000 is a fully automated weather radar system engineered to be more reliable, accurate and durable versus legacy magnetron-based radar systems. 

It is not restricted to business aircraft, and can be deployed in helicopters, enhancing pilots’ navigational capabilities, whilst reducing maintenance and operational costs. The system can also improve passenger comfort and identify potential failures, according to Honeywell.

“Gone are the days when a pilot’s only storm detection was their eyesight,” said José Vinicius Martins (pictured left), regional sales manager of South America, Honeywell Aerospace Technologies. “With the RDR-7000, pilots can see weather that will affect their route, detect turbulence at 60 miles and scan up to 60,000ft. By providing a clear view of weather conditions, the system will help pilots chart the safest and most comfortable route through turbulent weather.”

The IntuVue system was developed through a collaboration between Honeywell and Maga Aviation, a Brazil-based authorised Bombardier service centre.

“Our long-standing work with Honeywell enables us to bring transformative technologies like the RDR-7000 to the Brazilian market,” said Edivaldo de Sousa Coelho (pictured right), CEO of Maga Aviation. “As an authorised Bombardier service centre, we’re uniquely positioned to integrate this advanced weather radar system, enhancing safety and operational efficiency for Learjet operators.”

The RDR-7000 technology c is compatible with aircraft from OEMs including Bombardier, Cessna, Dassault and Leonardo. Last year, Omni Air Taxi, the largest operator of Leonardo AW139s in South America, selected the system to upgrade its 31-strong fleet.

The system is awaiting validation by the FAA and EASA.