Hopkinton, Mass., April 10, 2007 – Systems developer Alakai Technologies Corporation, data management and analysis software provider OpenAero, and system integrator and safety analyst, CAPACG announced today a teaming agreement to provide an all-in-one Flight Data Monitoring (FDM) solution for piston engine aircraft, such as the Cirrus SR 20 and SR 22, marking the first combined effort to provide general aviators with a "plug-and-play" engine and flight data monitoring, recording, and analysis system. The new package, based on standardized, FAA-approved Flight Operational Quality Assurance (FOQA) programs for commercial aircraft, enables non-commercial aviators to monitor and share engine trend and flight operations data.
While the system leverages the best features of the FOQA model, there are no FAA requirements associated with it. Under the FOQA model, data is de-identified and voluntarily shared in aggregate, allowing contributors to remain anonymous while learning and improving operations from data shared by other owners and operators. Those not interested in this option, however, can use the FDM as an informational program to simply enhance individual operations and performance.
"Flight Data Monitoring and the ability to share data has the potential to become a valuable tool among flight instructors," said J.J. Greenway, chief flight instructor with the AOPA Air Safety Foundation. "Data-sharing opens doors for improved teaching and increased safety possibilities."
The teaming agreement is intended to make the affordable, one-stop shop technology, previously too expensive for general aviation operators, more user-friendly for Cirrus and other single-engine owners and operators, with plans to expand service to twin-engine aircraft and light jets in the near future. The automatic, predictive FDM system monitors piston engine performance in real time, significantly improving safety and reliability while reducing engine maintenance costs, then provides ground-based analysis and reporting through a web portal.
Flight Data Monitoring (FDM) services provide the following:
• Formal risk and resource management for airframes and fleets
• Early identification of adverse safety trends
• Adherence to Aircraft Operating Manual limitations
• Automated monthly, plus on-demand, Airframe/Fleet reporting, analysis and comparisons
• Flight reconstruction and visualization for accident/incident investigations
• Enhanced maintenance records, with G-loading, flap overspeed, redline, and other warnings
• Fuel Management reports
Major benefits of the Flight Data Monitoring system are expected to include reduced aircraft operating and maintenance costs, reduced failures and costly overhauls, enhanced flight safety, improved long-term engine performance and fuel economy, and reduced warranty and insurance premium costs.
Additional information about the FDM "plug-and-play" technology the latest white paper on GA-FDM, and a downloadable brochure on GA-FDM can be found at www.capacg.com/reference/docs_PDFs/GA%20FDM%20White%20Paper_v3.pdfAbout the Team:
Alakai Technologies is a Hopkinton, Massachusetts-based company that develops, manufactures, and integrates products to enhance aircraft safety. Alakai (pronounced "al-uh-ki") is the Hawaiian word for "leader" or "guide." Additional information can be found at www.alakai1.com.CAPACG is a consulting firm and systems integrator focused on helping hardware and software companies develop products specifically for the General Aviation FDM market. CAPACG is an expert in helping operators develop, implement and operate their FDM programs. Additional information can be found at www.capacg.com.Open Aero is a data management and analysis software product and services company, based in Virginia Beach, VA. OpenAero specializes in Web-based remote monitoring, centralized expert diagnostic technology, and Condition Based Maintenance solutions for General Aviation. Additional information can be found at www.openaero.com/OpenAero/home.htm.
