FCS

Flight control systems for aircraft

Combining high performance and reliability, Safran Electronics & Defense provides flight control actuators for business, regional, commercial and military aircraft, such as high-lift devices and horizontal stabilizer trim actuation systems (HSTA).

HSTA - Horizontal stabilizer trim actuator

As an expert in horizontal stabilizer trim actuation, Safran equips many civil and military programs. Our HSTA systems enable to keep the aircraft’s attitude stable, by minimizing aerodynamic forces and reducing drag.

High lift: Flap actuation systems

Based on its know-how in flight control actuation, Safran has leveraged its experience in the design, certification and manufacture of Flap Actuation System. Electromechanical technology is now the standard used in a large number of high-lift actuation systems. Safran has the capability to design and develop the entire flap actuation system inclusive of Control Electronics, Power Drive Unit, individual Flap Actuators and Wing Tip Asymmetry detection and Brakes.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the typical lead time for gas turbine overhaul services?

The lead time for gas turbine overhaul services ranges from 6 to 14 weeks, depending on the damage assessment, parts availability, and whether hot-section repairs are required. Expedited options may reduce this by 30%.
Do you provide customizations for legacy turbine control systems?

Yes, we retrofit legacy systems (e.g., GE Frame 5, Siemens V94.2) with modern digital controllers, typically completing hardware integration within 4-8 weeks. Software migration requires additional validation time.
How often should industrial gas turbines undergo performance testing?

We recommend annual performance testing under ISO 3977-2 standards. Critical applications (e.g., offshore platforms) may require semi-annual tests with emissions compliance checks.
Are your radiation-hardened (rad-hard) semiconductors compliant with MIL-PRF-38535?

All rad-hard devices (e.g., FPGA, ADC) are QML Class V certified under MIL-PRF-38535 and tested to MIL-STD-883 Method 1019 for SEU tolerance. Full qualification reports are available upon request.
What temperature ranges do your military-grade ICs support?

Our ASICs and power management ICs operate across -55°C to +175°C ambient temperatures, with derating curves provided in military temperature range (MTR) datasheets.
Are PMA parts interchangeable with OEM components?

Our PMA parts (e.g., actuators, sensors) hold FAA/EASA Form 1 certification and match OEM form/fit/function. Installation requires SB/MB documentation per FAA AC 23.1529.
What traceability standards do you follow for aircraft fasteners?

All NAS/MS fasteners include full DNA traceability: melt source (AMS 2301), heat/lot numbers, and AS9100-compliant MTRs with ultrasonic test reports.
How do you handle urgent AOG (Aircraft on Ground) requests?

AOG orders ship within 4 hours for stocked items (FAA-PMA, EASA Part 21G). Non-stock critical parts trigger priority manufacturing with 72-hour max turnaround.