Two years ago, we released dramatically improved algorithms on PowerFLARM devices to assess the collision risk with fixes obstacles such as cable cars, antennas and wind turbines. Recently, we have worked hard to improve both the regional coverage, the number of obstacles, its level of detail, as well as the fidelity of obstacle data. These improvements are available for all FLARM devices to give you the best possible protection.
New for this year, we now offer high-resolution databases for the following regions: Austria & Slovenia, France, Germany, Northwest Italy, Northeast Italy, Switzerland, and UK & Ireland. These databases provide the maximum level of detail, as is preferred by regional, low-level, and low visibility operators for example in the helicopter air-work and HEMS/MEDEVAC domains. This is also the best choice for recreational pilots who operate regionally.
An updated European Alps database is also available, covering the entire Alpine region. It has been optimized to accommodate feedback from customers: A massive amount of critical cables throughout the Alps have been added from new data sources. To compensate for the increased data volume, vertical antennas, towers, wind turbines and power lines have been removed (with some regional exceptions). These objects are typically highly visible and do not normally pose a threat to recreational flying. In this database, power lines near airports have also been removed to avoid nuisance warnings during approach and departure, a request regularly raised from fixed-wing flight schools.
Each database is available in our webshop and is priced at EUR 35 (VAT may apply). We also offer periodic (e.g. monthly/AIRAC) large-fleet updates for various regions on request, contact us for conditions and pricing. All databases should be renewed at least annually and expire after January 31, 2020.
Only one database can be stored in the device at a time. Switching between databases is possible via SD card or USB stick, but not recommended in flight. Only one obstacle file must be present on the SD card or USB stick for proper installation during the device booting process. The installation process may erase flight logs, so we recommend retrieving the logs prior to installing a new database. Consult the device manual for specific instructions.
In the future and depending on customer demand, we intend to also cover Benelux, Scandinavia, Spain & Portugal, as well as selected regions of Eastern Europe and North America.
