This comprehensive radar altimeter solution expands upon Garmin's high-performance, all digital GRA 5500 radar altimeter to include the GRA 55, a best-in-class and cost-effective radar altimeter designed specifically for helicopters and general aviation aircraft.  The GRA 55 leverages Garmin’s patent-pending digital signal processing technology that works to provide smooth altitude tracking and results in a consistent and highly accurate above ground level indication, even inthe most challenging environments such as rough terrain, tree canopies, sand and choppy water.

Patent-pending technology in the GRA 55 incorporates built-in self-test monitors that continuously cross check the data and system integrity, assuring the pilot of an accurate measurement of the height above ground, even over challenging ground conditions. This technology also provides for a simpler installation, with easy calibration, and eliminates the requirement for long antenna cables that are traditionally required for the installation of radar altimeters.

For Part 135 helicopter operators, the GRA 55 fulfills the radar altimeter equipage requirement recently established by the FAA, and the GRA 55 paired with the GI 205 provides the best-in-class solution to meet these new requirements. Coupled with the GI 205 stand-alone indicator, operators can incorporate a complete, cost-effective radar altimeter solution into their flight decks without the need to purchase an entire flight display system.