GPI Glide Path Indicator

The powerful GPI light beams enable the pilot to easily locate the helideck from approx. 5 NM and will guide the helicopter to a position above the landing area. The light beams consist of three different vertical sectors: A steady green sector in the center that indicates the correct approach angle of abt. 4°, a yellow / amber, slow flashing upper sector above the green sector and a red, fast flashing lower sector warning the pilot of a dangerously low approach angle.

Technical Details

48 V DC / 250 W
-25 °C to 45 °C
IP 66
Ø 470×628 mm
approx. 49 kg
RAL Classic

The two fully redundant LED driven light beams are stabilized to ± 0.3° using an internal motion sensor (Inertial Measurement Unit IMU) and powerful servo actuators to compensate up to ± 45° of roll and pitch motions, irrespective of the relevant helicopter approach course. A high-resolution camera with motorized zoom facing towards the approaching helicopter will assist visual surveillance of helideck landing operations. When not used as GPI, the camera can be integrated in the CCTV system and act as pan / tilt camera for additional observations. System integrity and operational reliability is controlled by Optonaval´s internal electronics combining multiple sensors measuring temperature, humidity, and electric current, providing 24/7 monitoring of the GPI´s status. In that respect, the GPI will show an upcoming malfunction before it fails. Easily exchangeable standard dry agent cartridges provide effective absorption of residual humidity. Nitrogen filling, as alternative mode of humidity control, is available as optional feature.