Thales and StandardAero unlock a new level of safety with StableLight, the new 4-axis autopilot system

Thales and StandardAero are thrilled to announce that the StableLight™ autopilot was granted a Supplemental Type Certificate (STC) from the US Federal Aviation Administration (FAA). This true 4-axis autopilot system is now available for retrofit on Airbus Helicopters AS350 and H125 platforms. The system significantly reduces pilot workload, improves mission capability and can help reduce risk in critical flight phases.

Based on Thales’s Compact Autopilot System, derived from their previously certified transport category autopilot, StableLight is a robust, feature-packed autopilot in a compact, lightweight package that is perfectly suited for light rotorcraft.  The system transforms the flight control experience of the helicopter with transparent stability augmentation that works precisely and without feedback to the control sticks.  The addition of the stabilized climb flight attitude recovery, auto hover, and a wide range of other sophisticated features results in a system that drastically decreases pilot workload, enhances mission capability, and can help to reduce risks in critical flight phases and adverse conditions such as IIMC - (Inadvertent entry into Instrument Meteorological Conditions).

“Tailoring the most advanced technologies to offer safety and trust to our clients is at the very heart of Thales’ DNA. Combining Thales’ advanced capabilities with StandardAero's extensive knowledge allows us to draw upon a wealth of industry experience and deliver the autopilot solution that pilots have long aspired to.” Tristan Grivel, Vice President Business Development and Sales for Thales’s flight avionics business.

“We are excited to bring this state-of-the-art autopilot to market in partnership with Thales. The features offered by StableLight will be a major game changer for pilots and operators alike – it provides unparalleled performance, taking the already capable AS350 and H125 aircraft to the next level.  Today’s announcement of the certification of StableLight paves the way for a safety revolution for light helicopters.”  Marc Drobny, President of StandardAero’s Military, Helicopter and Energy Sector.

Pilots representing numerous operators and industry experts were able to test fly the pre-certified system over the last year and were extremely encouraged by the system’s performance and contribution to safety. Many commented on the system’s impressive capabilities and noted its potential to assist in a wide variety of missions. 

Based on the high level of customer interest to date, Thales and StandardAero are spooling up to meet the demand for kit deliveries, with the first kits reserved for the VIP launch customer MacNeil Aviation LLC.

Both EASA and Transport Canada validations of the STC are being applied for subsequently.

• Find out more about the StableLight™ autopilot