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Aviation Specialties Unlimited Inc. (ASU) added two fixed wing STCs to its growing list of fixed wing aircraft STCs, after successfully completing Night Vision Imaging System (NVIS) STC Lighting Installations on a PZL M18A Dromader and a Thrush S2R, agricultural spray planes.
These are the first unrestricted NVIS STCs issued for agricultural aircraft (spray plane and/or crop duster) which allow the use of Night Vision Goggles (NVG) for operation, which includes takeoff, spraying and landing.
“The addition of these STCs pave the way for agricultural fixed wing pilots to add a layer of safety that they previously did not have. “Spray” planes are often flown in areas of very low light and visibility, as well as being operated mere feet from the ground at speeds in excess of 120 knots. With the use of NVGs, pilots will be able to better scan for potential hazards, while maintaining low altitudes in a night environment,” said ASU director of programs, Kip McDermott.
These modified aircraft are operated by Valley Air Service of Caldwell, Idaho, whom has been conducting Night Agricultural Operations for many years without the aid of NVGs. ASU also conducted NVG pilot training, as part of their total turn-key solution. The use of NVGs will greatly enhance the level of safety and productivity for the agricultural industry.
ASU now holds fixed wing STCs for NVGs on the Cessna 206, Cessna 208 Caravan, CASA C212, DHC-6 Twin Otter and the King Air 200 as well as having numerous other aircraft modifications in queue for NVIS STC authorization.
