Wed, Apr 27, 2011
Currently In Use In Thailand For "Avoid Don't Cut" Low-Level
Flying
The FAA has issued a Type
Certificate to Safe Flight for the Powerline Detection System.
Safe Flight and Enstrom are currently working towards an STC that
will allow for a retrofit installation to existing in-service 480
operators. The Powerline Detection System will also be offered as a
production option from the Menominee Michigan based Enstrom
Helicopter Corporation.
Enstrom has begun delivery of the Powerline Detection Systems
equipped 480B model helicopters to the Royal Thai Army as part of a
16 aircraft contract award. The helicopters will be used primarily
for training purposes and will be based at the army's aviation
centre in Lopburi province in central Thailand.
The addition of Safe Flight’s Powerline Detection System
is a key component in the contract award to provide the Royal Thai
Army with the Enstrom 480B model helicopters. The Powerline
Detection System is being installed in lieu of wire cutters for an
“avoid don’t cut” approach to low level
helicopter operations.
File Photo
A multi-role light turbine helicopter, the Enstrom 480B series
has now been certified in 29 countries and has already been
operated in over 35 countries. With over 130 aircraft in the field
now, the 480B is proving to be a popular choice for a wide range of
applications, including personal transport, flight instruction, law
enforcement, power line patrol, executive transport (charter),
electronic news gathering, pipeline patrol, aerial photography,
sightseeing, and cargo/passenger delivery.
Safe Flight’s Powerline Detection System has been FAA and
EASA certified and is currently being operated worldwide. PDS is an
extremely lightweight and passive system that alerts the aircraft
pilot and crew when approaching an energized power line in a heads
up attitude. The system provides a visual and aural warning to the
crew. As the aircraft approaches the danger the aural warning
intensifies allowing the pilot to avoid contact with the hazard
altogether.
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