Solving the GFC 500 Autopilot Issue: FAA Approves Software Fix
Written by AirplaneFlyers
The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has recently approved a software fix for the Garmin GFC 500 autopilot, which was previously affected by a service bulletin that caused concern among general aviation aircraft owners and operators. The issue, which was first brought to light in November 2022 by a service alert from Garmin, stated that the GFC 500 with an optional GSA 28 pitch trim servo for experimental, light sport, and certified aircraft had a potential problem that could cause runaway nose-up trim the first time the autopilot was engaged.
In response to this issue, aircraft owners and operators were instructed to disable the autopilot by pulling the unit, collaring the circuit breaker, and placarding the unit as inoperative. The unit then could be taken to a Garmin repair station to have the auto trim disabled and reinstalled in the interim. However, it should be noted that this issue did not affect autopilots installed in Cirrus SR20 and SR22 aircraft.
The FAA's approval of the software fix means that aircraft owners and operators can now have their units updated with the new software, which eliminates the potential for runaway nose-up trim. This software update is considered a crucial step in restoring the full functionality of the GFC 500 autopilot and ensuring the continued safe operation of general aviation aircraft.
It's important to note that the FAA's approval of the software fix is a positive step forward for aircraft owners and operators, and it's a testament to the importance of regular maintenance and software updates to ensure the safe operation of avionics systems. The FAA and Garmin have also been working closely to ensure that the software fix is implemented in a timely and efficient manner, and that aircraft owners and operators are fully informed of the steps they need to take to have their units updated.
Overall, the FAA's approval of the software fix for the Garmin GFC 500 autopilot is welcome news for general aviation aircraft owners and operators. It is a positive step forward in restoring the full functionality of the GFC 500 autopilot and ensuring the continued safe operation of general aviation aircraft.