EASA SIB NM-10-12: Honeywell NZ-2000 Primus Epic Flight Management System

What to do

Owners and operators of the affected aircraft equipped with the NZ-2000 Primus Epic FMS software should ensure their flight crews are trained and familiar with the procedures outlined in Honeywell Service Information Letter D200909000044 dated October 15, 2009. There is no mandatory compliance deadline, but adherence to the guidance is recommended to mitigate navigation risks during RNAV approaches.

Summary

The Honeywell NZ-2000 Primus Epic Flight Management System Special Airworthiness Information Bulletin SAIB: NM-10-12 is an FAA advisory issued on January 7, 2009. It addresses incorrect navigation information transmitted by the NZ-2000 Primus Epic FMS software versions VAR9XX, VAR10XX, or VAR11XX installed on Hawker Beechcraft Model 4000, Gulfstream G-IV, GIV-X, GV-SP airplanes, Agusta AW-139 helicopters, and Cessna Model 680 airplanes. The bulletin informs operators about a navigation issue during RNAV approaches that may cause the FMS to navigate incorrectly when changing runways during a STAR procedure.

What changed

This bulletin introduces awareness of a software issue in the NZ-2000 Primus Epic FMS that can cause incorrect waypoint navigation during RNAV STAR procedures when a different runway is selected mid-route. It references Honeywell's Service Information Letter D200909000044, which provides guidelines for flight plan modifications on the ARRIVAL page, including destination runway changes. The FAA clarifies 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 it highlights a potential navigation error that could affect flight safety during RNAV approaches. Operators and maintenance teams must understand the software limitations to ensure proper flight planning and avoid unintended navigation paths. Familiarity with the recommended procedures helps maintain operational safety and compliance without requiring mandatory regulatory action.