Aspen Avionics receives STC for E5 electronic flight instrument

Albuquerque, New Mexico-based Aspen Avionics introduced the E5 in March at the Aircraft Electronics Association's annual convention, showcasing the non-Technical Standard Order unit’s consolidation of attitude indicator and DG/CDI into a single display with a rechargeable backup battery. The E5 also includes global positioning system steering (GPSS), air data computer, and attitude heading reference system (ADAHRS) and is priced starting at $4,995.

AOPA reported at the time that the product release represented an extension of efforts by AOPA, working with the FAA and industry, to more affordably modernize the legacy general aviation fleet.

“The interest in the E5 has been overwhelming and we have a significant order backlog. We expect to be shipping the E5 as soon as we receive the Parts Manufacturer Approval (PMA) which is expected very soon,” said Mark Ferrari, Aspen vice president of sales and customer support. 

In a Dec. 11 news release announcing the STC, Aspen Avionics noted the “configurable, upgradeable, and affordable” qualities of the E5, which it said can be upgraded to the new EFD1000 Pro MAX series primary flight display. Redesigned electronics and new glass give the Evolution E5 “a bolder and brighter display and offers higher reliability, more capability and increased processing speed,” it said.

The E5 is IFR certified with glideslope and localizer display and was designed as a drop-in non-TSO replacement for traditional mechanical vacuum instruments. The E5 interfaces with most legacy autopilots as well as the new TruTrak Vizion autopilot, the company said. 

“Together, our Evolution Flight Display System, and NexNav GPS sensors help enable the aviation community to affordably meet the FAA’s NextGen mandate,” the company said.

For more information visit the Aspen Avionics website.