Milwaukee-based Astronautics Corporation of America will provide an upgraded electronic flight bag system on all fielded and future production Boeing 787 Dreamliner airplanes.
An EFB system provides flight crews with data and information on user interface displays. The Block Point Four EFB has been standard fit on the 787 since its initial entry into service in 2009. Astronautics and Boeing introduced the first EFB to the air transport marketplace 15 years ago on the 777 airplane.
The new Block Point Five EFB will be a form/fit replacement for Astronautics’ current Boeing EFB. The device will give Boeing 787 operators additional functionality and will be compatible for use throughout all phases of airplane operations.
The device will enable increased storage of information, including detailed charts, maps, documents, and databases, allowing operators to enhance airplane performance and improve airplane operational efficiency, said Dan Ryan, Astronautics vice president of business development and product strategy.
The design allows for future upgrades without a significant redesign, potentially saving time and maintenance costs. It also does not require changes to wiring, power, cooling requirements, or the avionics rack.
The EFB system provides flight crews displays with user interfaces so they can access airplane data through the systems’ functional capabilities.
