EASA SIB CE-10-38R1: Honeywell Avionics - GPS Non-Precision Approach (NPA) caused by GPS Receiver Software Defect

What to do

Pilots and operators are advised to be prepared to revert to alternative navigation methods if a GPS navigation loss occurs during flight. There is no mandatory corrective action or compliance deadline at this time, but awareness and readiness to manage the issue are recommended. For further technical information or support, stakeholders should contact the FAA Wichita Aircraft Certification Office.

Summary

The Special Airworthiness Information Bulletin SAIB CE-10-38R1 issued by the FAA provides information about a GPS Non-Precision Approach (NPA) issue caused by a software defect in Honeywell GPS receivers. This concern affects multiple Honeywell avionics products including Flight Management Systems, GPS Navigators, TAWS, GNSS units, and the VIDL-G receiver, notably installed on aircraft such as the Dassault F7X. The bulletin highlights a temporary loss of GPS navigation during extended flights when no backup navigation system is available.

What changed

SAIB CE-10-38R1 revises the previous SAIB CE-10-38 dated July 15, 2010, by updating the list of affected Honeywell models and part numbers. It provides more detailed identification of the affected equipment and clarifies the nature of the software defect causing the GPS navigation loss. The FAA has determined that this issue does not currently warrant an airworthiness directive under 14 CFR part 39.

Why it matters

This information is critical for aviation professionals because the software defect can lead to a temporary loss of GPS navigation during non-precision approaches, especially on flights longer than five hours without backup navigation. Operators and maintenance teams need to be aware of this latent defect to ensure flight safety and prepare for potential navigation failures. Understanding the affected equipment helps in risk assessment and operational planning.