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The pilot-controlled short haul kit doubles capacity for human cargo. Boost Systems Photo
Boost Human External Cargo Systems Inc. has secured Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) approval for an innovative new human external cargo (HEC) system for light helicopters. This provides American-based operators, industry, and rescue teams access to the most advanced dual hook equipment for HEC fixed line helicopter operations.
Boost Systems specializes in HEC kits that are certified to 1,100 pounds (500 kilograms), effectively doubling the capacity of most systems currently in use.
The company now holds Transport Canada supplemental type certificate (STC) SH15-39 and FAA STC SRO3681NY for the equipment, which is easy to install, does not use a belly-band and allows use with the helicopter doors on or off.
The pilot is in control of the primary hydraulic release and back-up electrical release making the spotter position optional.
“This equipment radically changed North Shore Rescue’s HEC program by expediting our response and allowing for double the payload at the end of line,” said Mike Danks, team leader, North Shore Rescue. “We now have more options for insertion and extraction in the field and can safely evacuate double the number of people at one time. The advance in technology and safety is welcome and long overdue.”
The need to advance the safety, capacity and technology of short haul rescue equipment used by search and rescue (SAR), and industry teams was clear. Boost Systems tapped into a wealth of experience in SAR, helicopter operations and aviation engineering to change the scope and capacity of teams undertaking long line rescue activities.
“Aspects of HEC equipment have not changed for over a decade,” said Derek Thomas, president, Boost Systems. “The system’s design improves helicopter utilization and personnel safety, as the hook assembly can remain on the helicopter through refueling and positioning flights.”
Transitioning to the new system is smooth, and adoption of the kit does not require additional rescue technician training; only installation training is entailed. A dual hook system for the Bell 407 will be completed shortly, with the PCDS system being interchangeable from the Airbus Helicopters AS350/AS355 and EC135, and the Bell 407.
