A certified digital cockpit modernization solution developed in collaboration with Tokyo-based Alpha Aviation and StandardAero
OAK CREEK, WI – March 5, 2026 – Astronautics Corporation of America, together with Alpha Aviation and StandardAero, is seeking Japan Civil Aviation Bureau (JCAB) co-validation of its Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) supplemental type certificate (STC) for the RoadRunner® AFI4700 electronic flight instrument (EFI) on Leonardo A109-series helicopters operating in Japan.
Upon approval, the JCAB co-validation will recognize FAA STC No. SR04390CH for installation of the AFI4700 EFI on A109E, A109S, and AW109SP helicopters. This will enable operators in Japan to install the RoadRunner EFI using an FAA-approved certification basis, expanding availability of the digital cockpit upgrade in the Asia-Pacific region.
RoadRunner is designed as a certified digital cockpit modernization solution for legacy helicopter cockpits, replacing analog attitude director and horizontal situation indicators with digital displays that enhance situational awareness, improve reliability, and reduce long-term maintenance costs—all without requiring a full avionics suite replacement and with minimal downtime for installation.
“The JCAB co-validation process is an important step for RoadRunner and for operators in Japan,” said Griffin Wendt, manager of business development at Astronautics. “It will allow Japanese operators to adopt a modern, digital EFI solution based on a FAA STC while maintaining alignment with local regulatory requirements.”
The certification effort is being conducted through close coordination between Astronautics, StandardAero, and Alpha Aviation—an Astronautics-authorized dealer based in Tokyo. StandardAero, which served as co-applicant with Astronautics on the original FAA STC, submitted the application to JCAB. Alpha Aviation is supporting the program locally by installing the RoadRunner EFI on an A109E helicopter and conducting the required ground and flight testing in support of the co-validation process. The co-validation is expected to be achieved later this year.
For additional information on Astronautics’ RoadRunner EFI, visit booth B5210 at VERTICON 2026 or contact [email protected].
About Astronautics
Astronautics Corporation of America, headquartered in Oak Creek, Wisconsin, is a global leader in the design, development, and manufacture of avionics equipment and systems for the commercial and military aerospace industry. Key products include electronic primary flight, multifunction and engine displays, connected aircraft and airborne cyber solutions, electronic flight bags, and integrated avionics systems. Since its founding in 1959, Astronautics has delivered trusted, reliable, and tailored engineering solutions enabling aerospace OEMs and operators to achieve mission success. Astronautics is the parent company of Kearfott Corporation, headquartered in New Jersey, known for its guidance, navigation, and motion sensor products for sea, land, air, and space applications. For more information, visit www.astronautics.com.
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