Adams Aviation Supply Co Ltd

Mercury House, Vulcan Way, New Addington CR0 9UG

Robin Walsh, Adams Aviation’s Sales and Market Development Manager, explained their reasoning for embarking on this ambitious project: 

“ Our vision from the outset was simple, to prove that with the right equipment technology and support, the home-build aircraft family could benefit from the huge advancements we now see as standard in certified aircraft, at the right price. Garmin’s investment in that technology, and Manuel’s tenacity throughout the installation and certification process, have realised that vision, and paved the way for all existing and future builders to meet the standard required.”

The project has taken over 3 years to reach this historic position with the first stage being completed 18 months ago when VFR approval was gained for the use of the G5 Electronic Flight Instrument, also manufactured by avionics world leader Garmin International, as an acceptable combination with the innovative G3X Touch Flight Display. Both products have been specifically designed for the LSA and experimental market. The G5 seamlessly integrates with the G3X Touch, but can also be used as a standalone flight instrument or as a back-up to third-party displays. 

Ben Smith, Garmin’s UK Sales Manager, said:

“ Working in conjunction with Manuel and Adams Aviation, the whole team involved has spent a lot of time and effort over the years in consultations, information sharing and training with the LAA for this new technology to reach this point. This now sets the standard for the G3X Touch to be approved for use with the G5 Electronic Flight Instrument for both VFR and IFR flight and there is now a specific example for others to follow, thereby making it much simpler for those who wish to emulate this standard.”

A prominent figure in aviation for many years, Manuel Queiroz is well-known for being the first, and so far the only pilot to circumnavigate the globe in a British-registered home-built aircraft, setting 6 World speed records in the process, and currently is the 2 ^nd fastest overall to do so. An ambassador for the light aviation community, his enthusiasm and determination was paramount to the success of this project.

“ In my opinion Garmin offers the best EFIS system.” he said, adding “ The units work intuitively with each other, are fully integrated and fully integratable thus making it flexible for future upgrades too.”

To that end, and with electronic conspicuity at the forefront of airspace modernisation, Manuel has voluntarily adopted using an ADS-B transponder, which can be displayed on the G3X Touch. With its potential to unlock safety benefits and save lives by reducing the likelihood of airproxes and mid-air collisions, this technological advancement in the wider aviation world can only be a move in the right direction and a benefit to the industry as a whole.

L-R: Ben Smith, Robbie Conington, Manuel Queiroz

Robbie Conington, Adams Aviation's Avionics Specialist said:

“ Although this has been a lengthy and challenging project, obtaining IFR approval, following the previous VFR approval, is a very satisfying result. As avionics carry on evolving at a rapid pace we look forward to developing this and other projects to continue paving the way for aviators in the LAA and beyond.” 

Established for over 50 years Adams Aviation has been at the forefront of supporting all levels of aviation and prides itself on its service and the close working relationships it has with many of the industry’s leading manufacturers. Garmin Aviation is rightly known as a global leader in aviation avionics with a support team that has been rewarded with an independent service award for 15 consecutive years.