EASA SIB SAFO17013: Rockwell Collins Flight Management Systems Pro Line 4 and Pro Line 21 Navigation Databases

What to do

Operators should review SAFO 17013 and Rockwell Collins OPSB 0166-17R4 to understand the temperature compensation limitations and recommended procedures. Flight crews must be trained on the new limitations and mitigation strategies before operating affected FMS versions. For assistance identifying installed FMS versions, operators should consult Rockwell Collins Service Information Letter 523-0824752.

Summary

SAFO 17013 is a Safety Alert for Operators issued by the FAA regarding Rockwell Collins Flight Management Systems Pro Line 4 and Pro Line 21 navigation databases. It addresses the reinstatement of approximately 10,000 approach procedures and informs operators of new temperature compensation limitations affecting certain FMS versions installed on aircraft such as the CRJ-200. The alert identifies specific affected Rockwell Collins Flight Management Computer part numbers including FMC-3000, FMC-4200, FMC-5000, and FMC-6000.

What changed

This SAFO announces the reinstatement of about 10,000 approach procedures in the December 14, 2017 navigation database update. It also highlights a known issue where temperature compensation on certain FMS versions can cause incorrect turn directions during missed approaches or departures. Rockwell Collins has released an operational bulletin (OPSB 0166-17R4) to mitigate this problem.

Why it matters

The issue can lead to flight management systems turning the aircraft in the wrong direction during critical flight phases such as missed approaches or departures, potentially compromising flight safety. Operators and flight crews need to be aware of these limitations to ensure correct FMS operation and maintain safe navigation. Understanding and applying the guidance helps maintain compliance and reduces operational risks.