Providing critical data

has been selected by

to supply air data (ADS) and ice detection systems for the A350 XWB (Xtra Wide-Body) commercial aircraft.

Together, the awards are expected to generate more than $600m (£342m) in original equipment and aftermarket revenue over 20 years. Goodrich’s Sensors and Integrated Systems team in Burnsville, Minnesota will perform the work.

According to Goodrich, the ADS provides all critical air data parameters to the vehicle management computers for the aircraft's flight control and pilot display systems. SmartProbe and SmartPort air data sensing technology allows integration of multi-function sensing ports, pressure sensors and processing capability through the elimination of pneumatic lines. The total number of discrete product installations is said to be reduced, overall weight is decreased, and reliability and maintainability are significantly improved.

The ice detection system provides advisory indication of ice build-up and enables the flight crew to activate the aircraft's ice protection system at the optimal time. The system helps reduce fuel consumption by activating the energy consuming de-ice function only when required.

Jan Mathiesen, vice-president at Goodrich Sensors and Integrated Systems, said: ‘Both the air data and ice detection systems for the A350 are evolutions of the systems Goodrich provides for the Airbus A380, and we expect customers to reap the benefits of maturity and commonality.'