Mon, Sep 21, 2009
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.
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