Gulfstream IV flight crew reported the loss of some Navigation Dynamics components during a maintenance test flight and returned to the departure airport.
Synopsis
Gulfstream IV flight crew reported the loss of some Navigation Dynamics components during a maintenance test flight and returned to the departure airport.
Narrative
On Day 0 at approximately XA:50 we were scheduled for a maintenance test flight. During this flight we received some vectors. That moment was when we started to lose some of the displays. Later we lost the auto pilot and navigational system and some communication with ATC. Seconds later we got some displays on the right side; and that's when I decided to transfer the aircraft to my First Officer (FO). At that time we just got the PFD back. ATC came on frequency and they were very helpful and concerned about us. We were fixing the problem but ATC decided to [request priority handling] for us. At that point we went and proceeded to come back to ZZZ airport where the aircraft will be checked for further maintenance. ATC gave us a number and we talked to a Supervisor who said that no violation was committed due to the situation. I believe that we did our best with the handling of the aircraft and fly first then talk to ATC as soon as we could. I think ZZZ Center was very professional and helpful on getting immediate vectors to the airport as we landed with no further issues.
Second reporter narrative
On Day 0 at about XA:50 on a maintenance routine flight during some vectors we lost some displays; auto pilot; navigational references and communication with ATC. Moments later we got some displays back on the right side; then the Captain transferred the control to me. Moments later the Captain got their PFD back. ZZZ Center came on frequency concerned and they were very helpful. At the time we were sorting the problem and flying the airplane but ATC decided to [request priority handling] for us; then at that point we went and proceeded to go back to the ZZZ airport where the aircraft will be checked for the issues we encountered. I believe that we did our best with the handling of the aircraft by flying it; navigating it; and handling communication as soon as we could. ZZZ Center was very professional and helpful on giving us an immediate vectors to the airport. Thank you ZZZ Center and ZZZ Airport for the prompt handling and the situational awareness.
Source: NASA Aviation Safety Reporting System (public domain). Reports are voluntary submissions and are not verified by NASA.