Long before GNSS-based navigation became mainstream, Corporation Logic Air Inc. embarked on a mission to empower northern and regional operators with advanced Localiser Performance with Vertical guidance (LPV) capability — redefining access and safety standards for remote communities across Canada.
At that time, most remote airstrips were limited to non-precision approaches, often forcing pilots to divert due to poor visibility or limited ground-based navigation aids. Recognising this challenge early on, Logic Air’s avionics and certification team collaborated closely with aircraft operators, maintenance organisations, OEMs, and regulators to introduce LPV-enabled flight operations long before it became the industry standard.
“It was a frugal and innovative engineering effort — what we often call Jugaad in India — born from necessity,” recalls Prashanth Rajanna, now Director – Strategy & Business Development at Logic Air.
“There was no forward-fit or OEM-supported LPV solution for these aircraft. Our team convinced avionics suppliers like CMC to support with GPS units and developed interface unit and an integration path that could be certified under Transport Canada. That became a turning point for many operators in the North.”
Highlights of the Early Programme:
- Pioneered LPV integration on legacy aircraft serving northern routes, well before widespread adoption.
- Collaborated with CMC Electronics and regulatory partners to validate the first retrofit STC for LPV operation.
- Enabled reliable all-weather access to remote communities where traditional ILS or NDB procedures were impractical.
- Laid the foundation for future GNSS and PBN programs that today form the backbone of Canada’s navigation infrastructure.
Recognising this challenge early on, Logic Air’s avionics and certification team collaborated closely with aircraft operators, maintenance organisations, OEMs, and regulators to introduce LPV-enabled flight operations long before it became the industry standard
This early achievement cemented Logic Air’s reputation as a trailblazer in avionics innovation — bridging operational gaps through technical ingenuity, persistence, and collaboration. It also demonstrated the company’s long-standing commitment to improving northern accessibility, aviation safety, and sustainability through precision-based navigation.
More than a decade later, those first installations continue to symbolise Logic Air’s core philosophy: to innovate where others hesitate, and to connect regions where flight truly means lifeline.
The writer is Director of Strategy & Business Development, Corporation Logic Air Inc.
