The Garmin GPSMAP 496 is a mobile aviation device and includes Garmin’s SafeTaxi™ airport diagrams, Garmin’s Smart Airspace™, AOPA’s Airport Directory data, enhanced high-resolution terrain database, aviation database, GPS update rate, and comes pre-loaded with automotive maps of North America or Europe. Whew that’s a lot of information!

One cool feature found on the device is its real-time XM WX Satellite Weather function which provides all the vital info regarding weather, something which is mandatory in air navigation! The device sports a high resolution (480x320-pixels) TFT display and includes a fast USB interface. The Garmin SafeTaxi airport diagrams are a great way for the pilot to understand unknown airports as the feature includes charts with runways, taxiways, and hangars, as well as the aircraft’s exact location on the field. One can also access the Aircraft Owners and Pilots Association (AOPA) Airport Directory data on the GPS device which includes info like 5,300 public-use airports, 7,000 FBOs, such as pilot services, ground transportation, lodging etc.

The GPSMAP 496 has an incredibly fast GPS update rate and is Garmin’s first aviation device which includes re-loaded City Navigator® NT maps of North America or Europe. The device also sports a state of the art high resolution terrain database and the Smart Airspace feature easily identifies what airspace lies ahead. The GPSMAP 496 will be available in late July at an expected street price of $2,795. For more info visit the Product Page.