ROLLS-ROYCE ANNOUNCES NEW M250 UPGRADE KIT FOR BELL 407 AND MD600 HELICOPTERS

February 17, 2012

Heli Expo, Dallas, US – Rolls-Royce, the global power systems company, will deliver a new Value Improvement Program (VIP) upgrade kit for M250 engines, which power Bell 407 and MD600 helicopters. The upgrade will offer increased power in “hot and high” operations and reduced fuel burn.

During rigorous engine tests, the VIP upgrade kit reduced fuel burn by 2 percent while increasing hot/high engine performance by 5 percent – with no increase in engine weight. The VIP upgrade received certification in late 2011 and will be available to operators in the 1st Quarter of this year.

Greg Fedele, Rolls-Royce, Senior Vice President, Helicopters, said: “Rolls-Royce leads the way in technology in the light helicopter turbo-shaft industry, and this M250 upgrade is yet another great example. The M250 engine, with reliability gained over 210 Million flight hours, has been continually upgraded and remains the benchmark for the light helicopter industry.”

The upgrade uses advanced technology developed for the Rolls-Royce RR300 and RR500 engines, which include modifications to the engine impeller and diffuser, as well as optimization of the first-stage turbine nozzle. The VIP upgrade kit is simple, low-cost and easily retrofitted at any Rolls-Royce authorized FIRST Network location.

The VIP development program was executed on time, meeting a commitment to customers. Several “lead the fleet” operators have already been identified to install the VIP upgrade to begin reaping fuel and power benefits.

Vector Aerospace Receives FAA Approval for Bell 205 “Glass Cockpit” Installation

February 17, 2012

Langley, BC – Vector Aerospace Helicopter Services-North America (Vector) www.vectoraerospace.com, (Heli-Expo Booth # 7139) a subsidiary of Vector Aerospace Corporation and one of the world’s leading providers of helicopter maintenance, repair and overhaul (MRO) services has been granted a Federal Aviation Administration Supplemental Type Certificate (STC) # SR03043NY for an Integrated Cockpit Display System (ICDS, or “glass cockpit installation”) for aftermarket installation in the Bell 205 series helicopter.
The Vector STC applies to the following helicopter models:
Bell 205A / 205 A-1 / 205B
Bell 212
Phil Kemp, vice president of airframe and avionics sales notes the Visual Flight Rule (VFR) certified Bell 205 ICDS solution is a completely integrated upgrade, and replaces all legacy engine instruments, sensors and gyros with digital, solid state equipment. The new, light-weight cockpit installation; which is comprised of a SAGEM ICDS-10A three display electronic flight instrument (EFIS) system and Dual Crossbow AHR500GA Heading and Altitude system offers a more reliable and cost effective alternative that provides enhanced flight safety. This is accomplished through the integration of the latest situational awareness tools, and the ability to adapt the system to fulfill a wide variety of mission requirements.  The Vector system also includes various operator-focused multi-function improvements including moving map displays and exceedance monitoring functions.
In developing this latest glass cockpit STC, Vector partnered with Sagem Avionics, Inc. (Safran group), one of the helicopter industry’s leading manufacturer of glass cockpit systems. To date, Vector has successfully developed and integrated various glass cockpit solutions for the Bell 205 / 206 series, the Eurocopter AS350 and Heli-Lynx 355FX, the Eagle Single and Sikorsky S61 and S76 helicopters. In addition to the Vector-SAGEM ICDS avionics suites, Vector also offers a Rockwell-Collins STC glass cockpit solution for the Sikorsky S76 and S61 that utilizes a FDS-2000 and Collins AHRS package.
Vector Aerospace Helicopter Services offers a comprehensive MRO service portfolio including:

– Airframes and major inspections (various Bell, Sikorsky, Eurocopter, Boeing and AgustaWestland models)
– Engines: (Pratt & Whitney PT6T, Rolls Royce M250, Arriel 1 / Arriel 2, General Electric T58 / CT58 and
CT-7 / T700) * all engine lines include complete test capability
– Dynamic components – Eurocopter, Bell and Sikorsky
– Full-service avionics; including glass cockpit engineering, development and integration; complete rewires, etc

BRAZIL’S ANAC CERTIFIES DONALDSON INLET BARRIER FILTER FOR AGUSTAWESTLAND AW109E/S/SP HELICOPTERS

February 17, 2012

ST. LOUIS, Mo., February 12, 2012 – Donaldson Aerospace & Defense, a division of Donaldson Company, Inc. (NYSE: DCI) has received a Supplemental Type Certificate (STC) approval from Brazil’s National Civil Aviation Authority (ANAC) for an Inlet Barrier Filter (IBF) system for the AgustaWestland AW109 Power, Grand and Grand New (E/S/SP) helicopters. Donaldson produces the only IBF available for these aircraft. With ANAC certification, South American AW109E/S/SP operators now have the opportunity to realize the proven operating cost reductions and increased operational capabilities an IBF offers.
Donaldson’s AW109E/S/SP Inlet Barrier Filter will be on display in Exhibit 8451 during Heli-Expo 2012, Feb. 12–14 in Dallas, Texas.
Developed as part of Donaldson’s constant efforts to eliminate engine damage for helicopter operators worldwide, the IBF prevents engine damage in adverse and ramp environments alike. IBF-equipped AW109 Power and Grand operators can reduce aircraft operating costs without experiencing performance or drag penalties.
Donaldson Inlet Barrier Filter systems are already in use by AW109 operators worldwide in corporate, air medical and utility missions.
The IBF is a drop-in system with minimal installation impact. Features include streamlined conformal filter assemblies on each side, mounted into the existing engine cowl. As with all certified Donaldson IBFs, the system includes an alternate inlet air bypass system, mounted and hidden within the AW109 upper aft fairing. This emergency bypass capability is an important IBF feature, not included with competitive alternatives. The IBF does not interfere with the sliding door on either configuration, and the filter design allows for quick removal and service.
Providing the most comprehensive line of IBF solutions, Donaldson Aerospace & Defense is the industry leader in the design, development and manufacture of high-performance engine IBF systems for commercial and military propulsion systems. Through its St. Louis, Missouri location, Donaldson provides certified IBF solutions for the AgustaWestland AW109E/S/SP, AW119 Koala, AW119Ke and AW139; Bell 205A1, 206B, 407, 206L-3/4, 206L-1(C30), 429 and 430; Eurocopter EC130, AS350 B/BA/B1/B2/B3/B3e, AS350s with Soloy or Heli-Lynx Honeywell engine conversions; and MD Helicopters MD 369H Series, MD 500D/E/F and MD 900/902.

Garmin® Receives Brazilian ANAC Validation for GTN™ Touchscreen Avionics

February 16, 2012

GRMN), the global leader in satellite navigation, announced today that it has received Brazil’s
National Civil Aviation Agency’s (ANAC) validation of the U.S. Supplemental Type Certificate (STC)
for the GTN 650 and GTN 750 series touchscreen avionics and GPS antennas. With this validation,
the GTN is certified and approved for installation in hundreds of makes and models of Brazilianregistered
general aviation aircraft.
“We’re thrilled that the GTN continues to expand its installed base globally,” said Carl Wolf,
Garmin’s vice president of aviation sales and marketing. “With Brazil accounting for the second
largest GA fleet in the world, this validation opens up the door for many more pilots to take
advantage of the latest avionics technology and experience the multitude of benefits offered by this
product series.”
The GTN 650 and GTN 750 series are the successors to the popular GNS 430W and 530W series
GPS/NAV/COM avionics. They combine the latest in multi-function display (MFD) features with
touchscreen data entry and integrated radio tuning, as well as optional remote transponder control.
The GTN 750 series can also optionally support remote audio processor control. Other new
capabilities include graphical flight planning with victor airways and high-altitude jet routes and the
ability to display electronic terminal procedure charts with optional Garmin ChartView™ (750 series
only).
The units are offered in two sizes and a variety of configurations. The GTN 650 series products are
contained in a 2.64-inch tall package that replicates the in-stack form factor of the GNS 430W
design, while providing a display that is over 50 percent larger. The GTN 750 series is six inches tall
with a display that is nearly 100 percent larger than that of the GNS 530W.
Because the GTN offers a wide array of compatibility with select Garmin avionics and sensors,
Garmin has made it possible to have a consistent and intuitive interface to other systems – like
audio and transponder – by creating simplified systems management functionality on the GTN
display. Saving valuable panel space, Garmin’s new GMA 35 remote mount audio processor
(optional) interfaces with the GTN 750 and makes it possible for the GTN to be used as a
touchscreen control head for the aircraft’s audio and intercom functions. Garmin’s GTX 33/33D
remote transponders (optional) also interface with the GTN 650 or 750 so that pilots can control the
transponder function from the GTN’s display. Optional versions of the GTX 33/33D mode S
transponders are available which support ADS-B/Out.
The GTN 650 is available now at a suggested retail price of $11,495 USD and the GTN 750 is
available now at a suggested retail price of $16,995 USD.
Garmin’s aviation business segment is a leading provider of solutions to OEM, aftermarket, military
and government customers. Garmin’s portfolio includes navigation, communication, flight control,
hazard avoidance, surveillance, and other products and services that are known for innovation,
reliability, and value.

Garmin® recebe validação da ANAC para o sistema de avionics GTN™ com tela sensível ao toque

February 16, 2012

OLATHE, Kan./7 de Fevereiro, 2012 – A Garmin International, o líder global em navegação por
satélite, anunciou hoje que recebeu da Agência Nacional de Aviação Civil (ANAC) a validação do
Certificado Suplementar de Tipo (STC) dos aviônicos GTN 650 e GTN 750. Com essa validação, o
GTN está certificado e aprovado para instalação em centenas de marcas e modelos de aviões
registrados no Brasil.
“Nós estamos animados que o GTN continua a expandir a sua base instalada globalmente,” disse
Carl Wolf, vice-presidente de vendas de aviação e marketing da Garmin. “Com o Brazil tendo a
segunda maior frota de aviação geral do mundo, essa validação abre a porta para que muitos
pilotos aproveitem o que há de mais moderno em tecnologia de aviação e experimentem a grande
variedade de benefícios oferecidos por esses produtos.”
O GTN 650 e GTN 750 são os sucessores dos avionics (GPS/NAV/COM) GNS 430W e 530W. Eles
combinam a última tecnologia em telas multi-função com a entrada de dados em uma tela sensível
ao toque e sintonia de rádios integrado, bem como controle do transponder. O GTN 750 também
pode, de modo opcional, controlar um processar de áudio. Outras novas características incluem
planejamento gráfico de rotas e a possibilidade de exibir cartas de aproximação com o sistema
opcional Garmin ChartView™ (apenas no GTN 750).
Os modelos são oferecidos em dois tamanhos e uma variedade de configurações. O GTN 650 possui
6,7 cm de altura e um design similar ao GNS 430W, porém com uma tela 50% maior. O GTN 750
tem 15 cm de altura e uma tela 100% maior do que o GNS 530W.
O GTN oferece compatibilidade com uma série de equipamentos e sensores Garmin, por isso foi
possível manter uma interface consistente e intuitiva para o usuário. Ao integrar o áudio e o
transponder, o piloto possui um simples sistema de gerenciamento de funções na tela do GTN. Ao
salvar espaço precioso no painel, o novo processador de áudio Garmin GMA 35 (opcional) pode ser
conectado ao GTN 750 e faz com que sua tela seja usada para controlar as funções de
comunicação e intercomunicação da aeronave. O transponder GTX 33/33D (opcional) também pode
ser conectado ao GTN 650 e GTN 750 para que os pilotos controlem as funções de transponder
diretamente na tela do GTN.

SALES SOAR AS OEM, OPERATORS OUTFIT BELL MEDIUMS WITH BLR AEROSPACE FASTFIN SYSTEM

February 10, 2012

DALLAS, Texas, February 10, 2012 – Market acceptance of the FastFin® Tail Rotor Enhancement and Stability System is fueling record growth for BLR Aerospace, in large part due to OEM and operator acceptance of the FastFin System for Bell medium helicopters, according to Dave Marone, vice president of Sales and Marketing for BLR.

BLR representatives will be available to discuss FastFin technology during Heli-Expo 2012 (Exhibit 8846, Hall F). Visitors may also receive an immediate fleet performance analysis tailored to their aircraft and operating environment.

Total sales of FastFin Systems to the aftermarket increased more than 80 percent in 2011.  In just 18 months, BLR equipped nearly 10 percent of the fielded Bell 412 fleet with FastFin. The company’s order book represents a cross-section of rotorcraft industry market segments, including firefighting (Los Angeles County Fire Department), EMS (Telstra Child Flight), airborne law (New York Police Department), offshore oil (Falcon Aviation Services), heli-skiing/rescue/firefighting (Wildcat Helicopters) and paramilitary/VIP transport (government of Colombia), among others.

In 2011, the FAA approved a Flight Manual Supplement (FMS) certifying up to 500 pounds of additional out-of-ground effect hover performance for Bell 212s equipped with FastFin.  The same approval is expected soon from the European Aviation Safety Agency (EASA). With the FastFin® System, most Bell 212 operators will increase their useful load between 10 and 15 percent and greatly improve their crosswind capabilities. Bell 412s equipped with FastFin can realize useful load increases up to 91 percent.
“FastFin sales validate the system’s demonstrable advantages,” Marone said. “The operating community and the OEM have been receptive and enthusiastic.” For example:
Larry Roberts, senior vice president, Commercial Business, Bell Helicopter: “We’ve made FastFin standard on the Bell 412. I think that speaks volumes.”
Mike Michaud, owner, Wildcat Helicopters: “FastFin is a resounding success for our 212 fleet. We benefit from payload advantages and typically can carry 20 percent more water for firefighting. We also realize greatly improved stability and maneuverability in strong wind conditions.”
AJ Baker, vice president, Business Development & Strategy for Falcon Aviation Services:  “We see clear improvements in aircraft handling, better stability in cross winds (especially with heavy external loads) and significant safety benefits when operating from offshore platforms.”
Tom Short, senior pilot, Los Angeles County Fire Department: “FastFin benefits our operation during OGE hoist operations and maximum gross weight payloads during IGE/OGE firefighting operations with water/retardant payloads. I prefer flying our Bell 412 with FastFin.”
FastFin installation is quick and efficient.  The system includes two parallel stall strips, known as Dual Tail Boom Strakes, on the tail boom and a reshaped vertical fin.  FastFin optimizes air­flow around the tailboom, dramatically improving tail rotor efficiency and wind azimuth tolerance. FastFin also reduces operating costs and reduces cycle fatigue in structures and demands on tail rotor rotating components.

FALCON AVIATION SERVICES TO OPERATE WITH FASTFIN FOR OFFSHORE OIL TRANSPORT

February 10, 2012

DALLAS, Texas, February 10, 2012 – Falcon Aviation Services (FAS) of Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates, has become the world’s first offshore oil operator to enhance the safety and productivity of its helicopters with the BLR Aerospace FastFin® Tail Rotor Enhancement and Stability System.

FAS last year began flying the first new factory-produced Bell 412EP equipped with the FastFin System. Successful field trials led to a follow-on order of 10 FastFin systems for the entire FAS 412 fleet, according to A.J. Baker, FAS vice president of Business Development and Strategy. Baker called FastFin a “significant safety benefit” with “clear technical, logistical and commercial benefits.”

“We are impressed at the clear improvements in aircraft handling with the new FastFin System, especially the improved stability in cross winds when the aircraft has a full passenger load or a heavy external load,” Baker said. “This is a significant safety benefit when operating from offshore platforms, where space restrictions and obstacles are always a factor.”  FAS is a leading provider of air charter and fixed- and rotary-wing specialized services, including offshore oil transport, in the Middle East.

FAS air crews applaud the decision to add FastFin to the entire fleet. One said, “Overall control of the aircraft is noticeably improved. Crosswind maneuvers are clearly improved due to reduced tail surface area. The take-off performance is more stable.”

“There is not as much oscillation of mast torque when heavy, which allows [the 412] to lift more stably when lifting heavy loads,” another pilot commented.

The FastFin System includes two parallel stall strips known as Dual Tailboom Strakes along the tailboom’s left side and a reshaped vertical fin. The System optimizes airflow around the tailboom, increasing tail rotor efficiency and yaw control.  FastFin expands the 412’s lifting capability in all flight regimes, from sea level to high and hot conditions, and cuts costs by reducing fuel burn. Bell 412 operators can increase useful load by up to 1,250 lbs, a 91 percent gain.

“BLR is exceptionally proud of the FastFin System’s safety and certified performance improvements,” said Dave Marone, BLR’s vice president of Sales and Marketing. “Falcon Aviation’s experience is consistent with what other operators say — the system works, providing advantages throughout the helicopter flight envelope.”

Total sales of FastFin Systems to the aftermarket increased more than 80 percent in 2011.  FastFin also is certified for Bell 204, 205, 212, Huey II, and UH-1 models. Nearly 350 FastFin-equipped helicopters now fly worldwide.

Note to Editors:  BLR will be available to discuss the FastFin Technology at Heli-Expo Exhibit 8846, Hall F, Feb. 11-14, 2012. Attendees may also receive an immediate fleet performance analysis tailored to their aircraft and operating environment.

SALES SOAR AS OEM, OPERATORS OUTFIT BELL MEDIUMS WITH BLR AEROSPACE FASTFIN SYSTEM

February 10, 2012

DALLAS, Texas, February 10, 2012 – Market acceptance of the FastFin® Tail Rotor Enhancement and Stability System is fueling record growth for BLR Aerospace, in large part due to OEM and operator acceptance of the FastFin System for Bell medium helicopters, according to Dave Marone, vice president of Sales and Marketing for BLR.

BLR representatives will be available to discuss FastFin technology during Heli-Expo 2012 (Exhibit 8846, Hall F). Visitors may also receive an immediate fleet performance analysis tailored to their aircraft and operating environment.

Total sales of FastFin Systems to the aftermarket increased more than 80 percent in 2011.  In just 18 months, BLR equipped nearly 10 percent of the fielded Bell 412 fleet with FastFin. The company’s order book represents a cross-section of rotorcraft industry market segments, including firefighting (Los Angeles County Fire Department), EMS (Telstra Child Flight), airborne law (New York Police Department), offshore oil (Falcon Aviation Services), heli-skiing/rescue/firefighting (Wildcat Helicopters) and paramilitary/VIP transport (government of Colombia), among others.

In 2011, the FAA approved a Flight Manual Supplement (FMS) certifying up to 500 pounds of additional out-of-ground effect hover performance for Bell 212s equipped with FastFin.  The same approval is expected soon from the European Aviation Safety Agency (EASA). With the FastFin® System, most Bell 212 operators will increase their useful load between 10 and 15 percent and greatly improve their crosswind capabilities. Bell 412s equipped with FastFin can realize useful load increases up to 91 percent.
“FastFin sales validate the system’s demonstrable advantages,” Marone said. “The operating community and the OEM have been receptive and enthusiastic.” For example:
Larry Roberts, senior vice president, Commercial Business, Bell Helicopter: “We’ve made FastFin standard on the Bell 412. I think that speaks volumes.”
Mike Michaud, owner, Wildcat Helicopters: “FastFin is a resounding success for our 212 fleet. We benefit from payload advantages and typically can carry 20 percent more water for firefighting. We also realize greatly improved stability and maneuverability in strong wind conditions.”
AJ Baker, vice president, Business Development & Strategy for Falcon Aviation Services:  “We see clear improvements in aircraft handling, better stability in cross winds (especially with heavy external loads) and significant safety benefits when operating from offshore platforms.”
Tom Short, senior pilot, Los Angeles County Fire Department: “FastFin benefits our operation during OGE hoist operations and maximum gross weight payloads during IGE/OGE firefighting operations with water/retardant payloads. I prefer flying our Bell 412 with FastFin.”
FastFin installation is quick and efficient.  The system includes two parallel stall strips, known as Dual Tail Boom Strakes, on the tail boom and a reshaped vertical fin.  FastFin optimizes air­flow around the tailboom, dramatically improving tail rotor efficiency and wind azimuth tolerance. FastFin also reduces operating costs and reduces cycle fatigue in structures and demands on tail rotor rotating components.

Revista Aerea – Dezembro 2011/Janeiro Portuguese Edition

February 10, 2012

German Efromovich -Presidente do Grupo Synergy

Donaldson Filtration Showcases New Products at Heli-Expo 2012

February 9, 2012

ST. LOUIS, Mo., February 8, 2012 – Donaldson Aerospace & Defense, a division of Donaldson Company, Inc. (NYSE: DCI), has completed another successful year characterized by new products, a new facility, and delivery of its 5,000th Inlet Barrier Filter (IBF) system. New this year, at Heli-Expo 2012, in Dallas, Texas, Donaldson will utilize an interactive touch screen application to showcase its rotorcraft products. Visitors may experience the company’s rotorcraft filtration products in a 3-D environment as they learn about the unique benefits of IBF systems in Exhibit 8451.
“In 2012, we will be developing new technologies to address the challenges created by emerging helicopter designs with increased speed and size,” said Michael Scimone, president of Donaldson’s St. Louis office. Donaldson will also introduce its Universal Filtration Unit featuring flexible architecture that can be used on multiple platforms without the need for extensive aircraft integration.
“Experience has proven the vitality of increased inlet protection. Old paradigms are being broken,” Scimone said. “Documented return on investment data provides a compelling argument for customers to implement our inlet filtration solutions. With our technical experience in barrier and inertial filtration solutions, we can provide the most flexible design configurations to meet our customer’s requirements even as those requirements change.”
Donaldson’s market preeminence is based on decades of experience in world-class research and development of exceptionally innovative and effective filtration solutions for aerospace, military vehicles and industry, as well as highly capable management and responsive customer support. 2011 reinforced the Donaldson Aerospace & Defense record with:
delivery of the 5,000th IBF for rotorcraft
validated Supplemental Type Certificates (STCs) from international aviation agencies for IBF installations in five popular commercial helicopter models or series
creation of new IBFs for  AgustaWestland AW109 Power, Grand, and Grand New (E/S/SP) helicopter series(the only IBF systems available for these models)
product expansion with operating helicopter partners such as Coulson Group
relocation of its St. Louis, Missouri, manufacturing and administrative operations to a much larger 35,000 square-foot facility that will accommodate increasing demand and an expanding product line
launched a new Aerospace & Defense group website that showcases the company’s wide range of products and facilitates customer interaction (www.donaldsonaerospace-defense.com)

Providing the most comprehensive line of IBF solutions, Donaldson Aerospace & Defense is the industry leader in the design, development and manufacture of high-performance engine IBF systems for commercial and military propulsion systems. Through its St. Louis, Missouri location, Donaldson provides certified IBF solutions for the AgustaWestland AW109E/S/SP, AW119 Koala, AW119Ke and AW139; Bell 205A1, 206B, 230, 407, 206L-3/4, 206L-1(C30), 429 and 430; Eurocopter EC130, AS350 B/BA/B1/B2/B3/B3e, AS350s with Soloy or Heli-Lynx Honeywell engine conversions; MD Helicopters MD 369H Series, MD 500D/E/F and MD 900/902, and Sikorsky S-61.

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