Sagem ICDS Retrofit Part Of Carson Helicopter Modernization Effort 

Vector Aerospace Helicopter Services North America -- which proudly notes it is the world's largest independent provider of helicopter maintenance, repair and overhaul (MRO) services -- announced at Heli-Expo 2009 that Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) approval for a Vector-developed Supplemental Type Certificate (STC) has been granted to Carson Helicopter Services for a five panel configuration of a Sagem Avionics Integrated Cockpit Display System for installation in the Sikorsky S-61 helicopter.

Elvis Moniz, Director of Operations for Vector-Langley says the upgrade to the S-61 is part of a modernization program envisioned by helicopter pioneer Frank Carson. "Working with Mr. Carson and Sagem in developing this upgrade over the past several years has culminated in the solution we have today," says Moniz. "This system upgrade, in addition to other enhancements being developed by Carson undoubtedly improves operational capability and safety, and will help ensure the longevity of the international S-61 fleet, which currently numbers more than 600 aircraft operating in a variety of commercial and military roles."

The highly anticipated S-61 configuration includes five Active Matrix Light Crystal Display (AMLCD) 10-inch displays and integrates Primary Flight Instruments, EICAS (Engine Instruments/Caution Advisory System) and other Multifunction Display system functions including moving maps, enhanced vision (when linked to a camera) and TOPS – Terrain Obstacle Proximity System.

An updated digital fuel indicating system, dedicated 6-inch AMLCD displaying Caution advisory information, dual solid state AHRS system -- which virtually eliminates all traditional gyroscopic devices -- cargo hook and fire tank parameters are also part of the aircraft modification and upgrade.

Sagem Avionics, Vector Aerospace and Carson Helicopter have joined to celebrate the Sikorsky S-61 modernization at HeliExpo 2009 by hosting an event at Carson Helicopters Services (static display #25) on Monday, February 23, 2009 at 10:00 am. VIP tours of the aircraft will be available until 1:30pm.

To participate in the VIP tours, participants must pre-register at the Sagem booth #2347, the Carson Helicopter static #25 or the Vector Aerospace’s booth #2922.

FMI: www.vectoraerospace.com, www.sagemavionics.com