• SmartLynx Airlines launching customer for ADS-B out modification on A320
• Installation to be completed before the end of 2017

GKN Aerospace's Fokker business has been selected by SmartLynx Airlines for the introduction of the ADS-B out modification on the Airbus A320 fleet. In 2016 Fokker has already been selected by Icelandair for ADS-B out installation on the Dash 8 fleet.

Quote John Brady, VP Technical at Smartlynx: “SmartLynx Airlines has used Fokker Services in the past for their TCAS 7.1 and EFB Tablet holder solutions on our A320 fleet. We were impressed by their positive proactive approach to our needs and have no doubt Fokker Services will once again exceed our expectations by adding value and flexibility to SmartLynx operations with their ADS-B Out solution. We are especially proud for being the launching customer for this innovative solution and will gladly share our user experience with other airlines”.

Vincent Jansen, sales manager at Fokker Services: “We are pleased to welcome SmartLynx as our launching customer for ADS-B out on the A320. It is great to contribute to the succesfull SmartLynx operation with our innovative and cost effective solution. We are expecting launching customers for our ADS-B out STC for more aircraft platforms in the nearest future.”

ADS-B out (Automatic Dependent Surveillance - Broadcast) is a common system on-board many aircraft that automatically broadcasts relevant data from the aircraft towards air traffic management organizations. ADS-B out data includes the identity of the aircraft, the GPS location and direction of flight. A new ADS-B out system will become mandatory in June 2020 in Europe and the USA. The new ADS-B Out mandate involves an upgrade or replacement of two major cockpit systems: the ATC Transponder and GPS Receiver. This will enable optimization of the airspace and minimize the use of ground radar stations. In the next decade, most of the airspace throughout the globe will be using ADS-B as the primary means of surveillance, replacing radar. This will include the oceanic environment (Satellite ADS-B).

Editor's Notes:

SmartLynx Airlines was founded in 1992 as a private airline with its headquarters being located in Riga, Latvian SmartLynx Airlines specialises in full-service ACMI (Aircraft-Crew-Maintenance-Insurance), i.e., aircraft lease services and is the leading ACMI provider in EU on Airbus A320 aircraft. Airline also ensures full charter operation for its home markets in Latvia and Estonia, predominantly in the leisure market. The airline's fleet consists of 13 Airbus A320 aircraft and 1 Airbus 321 aircraft that ensure flights in Europe, Asia and Africa.

GKN plc is a global engineering group. It has three divisions; GKN Aerospace, GKN Driveline and GKN Powder Metallurgy, which operate in the aerospace and automotive markets. Over 58,000 people work in GKN companies and joint ventures in more than 30 countries. GKN is listed on the London Stock Exchange (LSE: GKN) and recorded sales of £9.4 billion in the year to 31 December 2016.

GKN Aerospace is the world's leading multi-technology tier 1 aerospace supplier. As a global company serving the world's leading aircraft manufacturers, GKN Aerospace develops, builds and supplies an extensive range of advanced aerospace systems, components and technologies– for use in aircraft ranging from helicopters and business jets to the most used single aisle aircraft and the largest passenger planes in the world. Light weight composites, additive manufacturing, innovative engine systems and smart transparencies help to reduce emissions and weight on the aircraft and enhance passenger comfort. GKN Aerospace is market leading in aerostructures, engine systems, transparencies and wiring systems and operates in 14 countries at 55 manuafacturing locations employing approximately 17,500 people.

For further information, on this release please contact:
Marianne Mulder, Digital Communications and Media Manager, GKN Aerospace
TEL: +31 78 6419848 Mobile: +31 6 513 112 17. Email: Marianne.mulder@fokker.com