STC Means Kits For Tailboom Strakes Will Be Available

BLR Aerospace has received an STC for installation of the FastFin segment of the FastFin tail rotor enhancement and stability system on Bell 204, 205A, 205A1, and 205B helicopters. BLR says this will be of particular interest to those operators whose aircraft are already equipped with Dual Tailboom Strakes.

The patented FastFin System modifies the tailboom with two parallel stall strips (Dual Tailboom Strakes) and a re-shaped vertical fin, optimizing airflow around the tailboom for dramatically improved handling. As a result of the new STC, operators may purchase kits for the vertical fin alteration. Kits for the entire FastFin modification (with the Dual Tailboom Strakes) are also available.

BLR says the FastFin System improves productivity and safety while reducing workload for helicopter operators. FastFin also expands lifting capacity and performance while enabling greater stability in all flight regimes. the company claims installation of the system will improve hot/high performance while in power-limited conditions by up to 4.5 percent and reduce fuel burn in hover by up to 6.5 percent. When in a left pedal-limited condition, performance results can be significantly greater.

Bell 205 File Photo

FastFin is available for Bell 212s and most UH-1 derivatives. BLR has a certified Dual Tailboom Strake System for the Bell 412 and is hopeful to certify the Bell 412 FastFin System in early 2010. The U.S. State Department has installed FastFin systems on 10 Bell HUEY-II helicopters operating in Afghanistan. The enhancement helps the armed aircraft fly more effectively with greater payloads at high density altitudes, making it an ideal addition for aircraft operating in hot, mountainous Afghanistan.

FMI: www.blraerospace.com