New Autopilot STC Project Follows EAA’s Lead

November 30, 2016 - Following the path of EAA’s successful work to certify low-cost avionics in type-certificated aircraft, an industry group has announced it is working to certify the Trio Pro Pilot autopilot system in Cessna 172 and 182 aircraft. 

The new effort, led by The STC Group LLC, and its CEO Paul Odum, leverages Trio’s proven track record with approximately 3,000 units in the field since the company’s founding in 2000. The Pro Pilot is a two-axis system with full navigation capabilities, envelope protection, return-to-level and 180 degree turn features for unintended IMC encounters.

“As experimental aircraft builders, our primary design goal has always been safety of flight,” said Chuck Busch, Trio Avionics CEO. “We are especially proud that our Pro Pilot incorporates many safety features that are unique in the industry.”

The STC Group will own an STC designating the autopilot system as an approved commercial part for selected aircraft. This is similar to the path EAA followed to obtain its STC for the Dynon system, and EAA has been advising the Trio project team as they work through the certification process. EAA led the STC process for the Dynon EFIS-D10A and EFIS-D100, and is continuing its present project involving TruTrak and Dynon autopilots.

“We are very pleased, and have been encouraging other industry players to follow the commercial parts approach that EAA pioneered for certifying low-cost, safety-enhancing equipment,” said Sean Elliott, vice president of advocacy and safety. “This is a valid pathway toward bringing new innovative technologies into the GA cockpit at a truly affordable level.  There is an enormous amount of untapped potential in this method of certification.  We are excited and supportive of Trio pursing this effort.”

Questions about the Trio project may be addressed to Odum at 805-304-5246 or paul.odum@thestcgroupllc.com.