Diamond-Executive Aviation has completed the fitment of the final Avidyne TAS615 traffic collision avoidance system to its Diamond DA42 fleet. The programme, carried out by RGV Aviation, means that all 10 of DEA's DA42s, and the Cobham/OSRL Islander are now fitted with TCAS 1 functionality.

Head of flight operations John Dundon says: “TCAS 1 capability adds a significant enhancement to DEA's safety systems. Although the probability of two aircraft colliding is statistically remote, it has happened, especially in procedural airspace where aircraft are flying very precise tracks only separated in time, and sadly it has happened even in airspace where radar services existed.

“Given that we are often flying in relatively close co-operation with other DEA aircraft on the same mission and also flying on special operations where our intent and purpose is not necessarily understood or appreciated by other aircraft, TCAS functionality is a major enhancement to safety and situational awareness.”

The TCAS upgrade follows DEA's WX500 Stormscope upgrade programme that enables all of its aircraft to see and avoid thunder-storm related activity.

Peter Bondar, DEA's ceo, adds: “Since our inception we have pre-emptively pioneered new tech-nologies. Regulatory authorities have acknowledged this strategy by readily granting increased operation privileges and operational coverage. In addition we will be adding ADSB (Automatic Dependent Surveillance Broadcast) support to all our aircraft as soon as the new hardware is available.”