ANN First Look: MCI Announces 'Lifesaver Gyro' With Built-In Battery Backup For Emergency Attitude Reference

Here's a hot item that may allow pilots and passengers to fly with added confidence and safety. With the launch of Mid-Continent Instruments' new 4300 series electric attitude indicator - the Lifesaver Gyro™ - even if every other system in an aircraft's avionics panel goes dark, this innovative product powers on. The only attitude indicator to offer self-contained battery backup, it provides one hour of emergency attitude reference.

"No other attitude indicator offers this kind of security, convenience and cost-benefit," said Todd Winter, president, Mid-Continent Instruments. "Having a self-contained power source means the Lifesaver can operate on its own even if every other system in the aircraft or helicopter fails."

The only attitude indicator with a battery back-up built in, the Lifesaver Gyro™  adds cost savings to its obvious safety benefits. It outlasts the nearest competition with a lifespan that's more than three times as long: 7,500 hours. It costs about two-thirds the price without the high installation and maintenance expense. Retrofit of aircraft is minimal with installation as simple as hooking up one standard connector.

"This new, easy-to-install option provides additional security-and peace of mind-and will further enhance the benefits that Mid-Continent Instruments brings to individual operators as well as to our airframe clients," said Winter.

World-renowned aerobatic champion Ian Groom has been testing the Lifesaver in his new Extra 300 for the past year. Groom's extremely technical aerobatics include record-breaking techniques, sometimes working under 10 Gs of pressure. He holds the world record for completing 57 snap rolls in 26 seconds and is known for such pulse-quickening moves as departure and recovery from controlled flight.

"I take calculated risks, but I am not a reckless person," said Groom. "I thrill crowds and, yes, I may stop a few hearts with my maneuvers, but I make sure my aircraft doesn't give me any surprises. Mid-Continent's new attitude indicator is a perfect case in point.  It makes my aircraft safer - so I can go out and rip up the sky."

Mid-Continent plans to unveil the product at the 2003 NBAA convention, scheduled for Oct. 7-9 in Orlando, Fla. Unlike many aviation announcements - with the actual product still in development - the Lifesaver Gyro™  will be immediately available to the industry. It can be purchased through any of Mid-Continent Instruments' nationwide dealers.

FMI: www.mcico.com, www.mcico.com/pdf/4300.pdf, Mid-Continents NBAA booth, #3012.