Center Expected To Open July 1

Geneva Aviation, provider of electronic consoles and audio and video systems and equipment for law enforcement and electronic news gathering helicopters, tells ANN the company is nearing completion of a new center for development, engineering and prototyping of newer, more advanced systems for these markets.

The company’s new engineering center will replace an existing facility in Kent, WA. Completion and move in is expected on July 1.

"The new facility will allow Geneva to strengthen its leadership position in an industry that continues to demand more capability from its airborne assets," said Jeff Shapiro, president of Dart Helicopter Services, Geneva’s parent company. "As the tools used by law enforcement agencies and television news organizations increase in sophistication and capability, we must keep pace by designing systems that enable them to perform their ever demanding missions."

Among the challenges faced by law enforcement agencies is implementation of audio, video and electronic equipment to meet specific missions often requiring multiple radios with complex audio interfaces, he said. "We must be able to provide them with intricate systems that meet their needs and still be able to fit them into the limited space available in modern helicopters."

Television organizations are converting their helicopters to handle high definition broadcasting and microwave transmission requirements, requiring more sophisticated equipment that fits in very cramped spaces.

"Airborne television news has come a long way from the days when the pilot also was the on-air reporter who was accompanied by a cameraman shooting through an open door or window with a hand-held camera," said Shapiro. "Our advanced development center will enable us to integrate new technology to stay ahead of industry requirements."

Geneva Aviation has provided industry-standard audio, video and electronic systems and components for helicopters for more than 20 years. The company was acquired by Dart Helicopter Services in December 2006.

FMI: www.genevaaviation.com/