iPad Function Streamlines Helicopter Performance Calculations

Sikorsky Aircraft has launched the company’s first iPad flight calculator application for Sikorsky’s commercial S-92 helicopter platform. Known as iFly Sikorsky, the application replicates common performance calculations described in the S-92 Rotorcraft Flight Manual (RFM). A similar application for the S-76 aircraft fleet is currently in development.

“The S-92 iPad performance calculator is customized to operators’ specific configurations. This unique tool provides a high level of accuracy, and eliminates tedious, labor-intensive calculations and the use of paper charts and maps,” said Lawrence Varholak, Sikorsky Director of Fleet Analytics & Product Support Engineering. “Our operators are the impetus for developing this technology, and, as the OEM, we will be able to transfer this application to new models and other platforms.”

In addition to performance calculations, iFly Sikorsky also has a configuration and weight and balance calculator utility. When initializing the application, an operator’s Sikorsky360.com user credentials are validated. Sikorsky360 is a proprietary online support capability with more than 4,000 registered users worldwide.

“The user can configure the aircraft from scratch, or use templates that can be customized once loaded. We have pre-populated the fixed equipment list with the most common items: seats, hoists, litters, auxiliary fuel, and cargo pallets,” said Simon Gharibian, general manager, Maintenance Planning and Publications. “The user also can add external items that would affect the frontal drag of the aircraft – a critical element for accurate calculations. This is a time-saving tool that replaces performance charts and cumbersome flight manuals.”

iFly Sikorsky complements Sikorsky’s new offshore platform approach system for S-92 helicopters, known as Rig Approach, which provides offshore oil operators with a fully automated approach and departure capability from elevated helidecks. Working in tandem with the Rig Approach system, iFly Sikorsky calculates the maximum allowable approach and departure weight based on current ambient conditions.

(Image provided by Sikorsky)

FMI: www.sikorsky.com