Traffic Alert and Collision Avoidance System (TCAS)

Since its initial flights in 1990 on board regularly scheduled, commercial aircraft fleets, the Traffic Alert and Collision Avoidance System (TCAS) has proven to be a significant factor in improved worldwide flying safety. The system operates independently of, but compatible with, international air traffic control systems and has been recognized by pilots and air traffic controllers alike for its contribution to air safety.

The FAA has mandated TCAS for aircraft with 10 or more passenger seats operating for hire in U. S. airspace. In Europe, ICAO has issued similar guidelines for aircraft flying in the European Air Navigation Region and is looking at a worldwide guideline for all aircraft with 19 seats or more by January 2005.

Through cockpit displays and universally understood symbology, TCAS provides flight crews with visual awareness of the location, relative altitude and direction of travel of aircraft within a moving 40-mile radius. The system also provides clear aural warnings and coordinated vertical flight commands in the event of an airborne collision threat .

In 2002, Honeywell introduced the next-generation of collision avoidance technology, the new Enhanced ACAS II (Airborne Collision Avoidance System) and Mode S transponder system. ACAS II is essentially TCAS II with additional software called "Change 7", which is the basis for the worldwide requirement.

Building on these features, Honeywell has developed a number of advanced technologies such as increased surveillance range options, superior bearing accuracy, improved reliability and an advanced communication datalink, while ensuring the system meets the full range of ACAS II and Mode S regulatory requirements. A modular architecture assures easy upgrades to future industry-defined systems such as ASAS (Airborne Separation Assurance System) and ADS-B (Automatic Dependent Surveillance-Broadcast).

In addition to commercial applications, Honeywell has designed and developed an Enhanced Traffic Alert and Collision Avoidance System (ETCAS) to provide military aircraft operators with an extended surveillance range and the capability to coordinate formation flying in addition to standard TCAS operations.

Honeywell is the pioneer and worldwide leader in TCAS technology with over 40 years of Airborne Collision Avoidance System research and development experience, including the first certified system in the industry. With cost-effective, advanced technology and innovative designs, Honeywell has sold over 10,000 systems to more than 130 airlines worldwide and 25 militaries.