VERO BEACH, Fla., Feb. 12, 2015 - Piper Aircraft, Inc. was awarded approval from the National Civil Aviation Agency in Brazil for its most recent product, the Meridian M500, with Phase III avionics and digital cabin pressure control system.
"We are eager to bring the Meridian M500 into Brazil," said Simon Caldecott, President and CEO of Piper Aircraft. "The M500 offers the best value proposition of any aircraft in its class, and with its reliable Pratt & Whitney PT6A-42A engine, unpaved field approval, and added safety of the enhanced autopilot flight control system, the aircraft is well-suited for South American topography and the market's requirements."
The M500 features the latest advances in Garmin G1000 technology, with industry leading safety features unique to this class of aircraft. Electronic Stability Protection, Underspeed Protection, Coupled Go-Round, Synthetic Vision Technology, and Automatic Level Mode are some of such impressive features for consumers seeking the safest aircraft possible, without sacrificing speed and power. GFC 700 remains standard, as well.
Other major improvements for the Meridian M500 include the Aspen EFD-1000 standby instrument, electroluminescent placards in cockpit, GTX 33 Extended Squitter Transponder, a centrally located single audio panel, dual USB charging ports, and an optional GTS 825 Traffic Advisory System, which coupled with the GTX 33ES, gives the aircraft ADS-B In and Out functionality.
"Garmin remains the forerunner in revolutionary avionics advancements, and continues to be Piper's preferred choice for our products," continued Caldecott. "We are pleased to have the opportunity to serve Brazil, and quite confident the M500 with AFCS will exceed the expectations we have set forth for this aircraft."
About Piper M-Class Aircraft
M-Class aircraft offer Piper performance and safety built upon a proven airframe that has been an industry standard for years. Three refined derivatives comprise the full line: the Meridian M500, the Mirage and the Matrix. Each product fits its own niche and price point, and each aircraft provides a seamless step-up to the next level. Created to maximize the business and the private travel experience, the M-Class line balances performance, efficiency and simplicity.
About ANAC
The National Civil Aviation Agency is responsible for civil aviation regulation and safety preterition in Brazil. Originally managed by the Department of Civil Aviation (DAC), regulation was assumed by ANAC after it was established in early 2006, incorporating the DAC's former staff and structure.
About Piper Aircraft
Piper Aircraft Inc., headquartered in Vero Beach, Fla., offers aviators throughout the world efficient and reliable single- and twin-engine aircraft. The single-engine M-Class series - the M500, Mirage and Matrix - offers businesses and individuals elegant performance and value. The Twin Class Seneca and Seminole balance proven performance, efficiency and simplicity in twin-engine aircraft. The Trainer Class Archer TX, Archer DX, Arrow, Seminole and Seneca aircraft form the most complete technically-advanced line of pilot training aircraft in the world. All Piper airplanes feature advanced Garmin avionics in the cockpit. Piper is a member of the General Aviation Manufacturers Association.
