Thales Unveils Future Helicopter Cockpit at Heli-Expo

Feb. 25, 2014
The Avionics 2020 concept introduces a modern architecture including multi-touchscreen capabilities, head-down controls, open and customizable systems and a mission-centric approach.

On the opening day of the HELI-EXPO 2014 show in Los Angeles, Thales unveils its Avionics 2020 new-generation helicopter cockpit.

Modeled on the principles behind the ground-breaking Avionics 2020 for fixed wing aircraft presented at the 2013 Paris Air Show, this cockpit represents the new-generation in helicopter avionics.

Avionics 2020 is the result of a number of partnerships, spearheaded by Thales with researchers, scientific institutions and world class experts, aimed at refining knowledge in the field of human machine interface.

These efforts, culminated in a new-generation cockpit founded on natural and direct hands-on interaction, designed to give the pilot all the elements needed to make the right critical decisions at the right time.

The Avionics 2020 concept introduces a modern architecture including multi-touchscreen capabilities, head-down controls, open and
customizable systems and a mission-centric approach, putting the pilot at the center of a helicopter operation.

The very structure of the cockpit favors the integration of future capabilities and functions to optimize and secure a wide range of
helicopter missions, also taking into account specific functionalities driven by civil mission types such as search and rescue or offshore missions as well as military mission types such as tactical, combat or reconnaissance operations.

Key points

The new-generation in helicopter avionics, Avionics 2020, is founded on the principles of natural and
direct hands-on interaction

It is an open, mission centric concept, scalable to any type of helicopter, light to heavy, civil to military

Avionics 2020 includes multi-touchscreen capabilities and the latest technologies in head-down controls

About Thales

Thales is a global technology leader in the Aerospace, Transportation and Defence & Security markets. In 2013, the company generated revenues of €14.2 billion with 65,000 employees in 56 countries. With its 25,000 engineers and researchers, Thales has a unique capability to design, develop and deploy equipment, systems and services that meet the most complex security
requirements. Thales has an exceptional international footprint, with operations around the world working with customers and local partners.