February 2001

Sikorsky Launches Next Wave of S-76 Product Improvements
Posted Wednesday, February 28, 2001 - 9:35 AM by News Staff
In a move that underscores Sikorsky’s commitment to the civil marketplace, go-ahead has been announced on future product improvements for the S-76. The improvements taking place were selected by analyzing potential changes in the context of how they would most cost-effectively satisfy customer requested features. Among the candidate improvements, the following were considered the most attractive and form the basis for the planned program:
Uprated Engine — Certification of the Turbomeca Arriel 2S2 with approximately 6 percent more power than the current 2S1;
Integrated Cockpit — The new cockpit will have flat panel liquid crystal displays, digital data bus architecture, and rack adaptability to incorporation of optional equipment. The BFGoodrich Health and Usage Monitoring System (HUMS) will be an integral feature of this new system;
Quiet Tail Rotor — This design incorporates an advanced airfoil design with swept tip and flush fastener attachments. It has been tested and flown to demonstrate its performance and acoustic characteristics.
Improved Comfort Interior — Improved cabin comfort is to be achieved by a combination of passive noise suppression, Active Vibration Control, Active Noise Control, and a low noise main transmission.
The selected product improvements on the S-76 are tentatively planned for certification and introduction in 2004.

Sikorsky Aircraft Corporation also announced that the first production S-76C+ airframe has been received from its new supplier, Aero Vodochody, as part of the manufacturing process restructuring that began in 2000. Aero Vodochody, in the Czech Republic, was selected in 2000 as a prime supplier of airframe assemblies for new S-76C+ helicopter production. Meanwhile, Sikorsky delivered the first three S-76C+ helicopters at the close of 2000 from its new Completion Center partner, Keystone Helicotper Corporation in West Chester, Pennsylvania. Among these on-schedule deliveries was a new aircraft to the flight department of Sikorsky’s parent, United Technologies Corporation. Another was for airline operation in Japan, and the third was an executive-configured aircraft for a customer in Turkey.

Production has started on two S-76 helicopters for People’s Republic of China search and rescue (SAR) missions, a first step in a major upgrade of the nation’s airborne offshore SAR capability. The China SAR aircraft will use S-76C+ airframes received in February from Aero Vodochody in the Czech Republic. After installation of dynamics, final assembly and initial flight acceptance at Sikorsky’s Stratford, Connecticut facility, the two aircraft will fly to the S-76 Completion Center at Keystone Helicopter Corporation in West Chester, Pennsylvania for installation of specialized SAR equipment. Final acceptance in China is anticipated late in 2001.
Keystone Enters Agreement as Sikorsky Completion Center
Posted Wednesday, February 28, 2001 - 9:33 AM by News Staff
Keystone Helicopter Corporation in West Chester, Pennsylvania entered an agreement naming Keystone as the Completion Center for new Sikorsky commercial helicopters. To meet the new challenges that Keystone envisioned the new Sikorsky work would bring, it has increased its facilities size and significantly grew its resources. Keystone expanded facility space so they could handle both the Sikorsky contract and their current customers’ work. A new, upgraded fabrication and composite shop, down draft paint booth, and dedicated parts shop have been created in the new facilities. This expansion of the facility and extensive hiring of highly skilled personnel continues as Keystone strives for the knowledge and expertise required to manage new technologies and the expanded shops. The third S-76 completion under contract with Sikorsky has been delivered in record time and with expected quality and finishing customers have come to know as “Keystone Quality.”

NAA Announces Winners of Brewer Trophy and Collier Award
Posted Wednesday, February 28, 2001 - 9:32 AM by News Staff
For the first time in 21 years, the Brewer Award for aerospace education will be given to a team instead of an individual when the National Aeronautic Association (NAA) honors the National Aeronautics and Space Administration’s (NASA) Spacelink Team. The award is in recognition of NASA’s Spacelink contributions to the educational community for pioneering quick and easy electronic access to NASA information and educational materials. In February 1988, Spacelink became NASA’s first electronic bulletin board service. With the advent of the World Wide Web, Spacelink started service as one of the early pioneers of the medium. In its 12-year history, Spacelink has had more than 7.5 million visitors to its site.

A fully autonomous unmanned vehicle for long-range reconnaissance and surveillance has been selected as the year’s greatest achievement in aeronautics and its makers will receive the NAA’s Collier Trophy. The Global Hawk is a product of the Northrop Grumman Corporation and the Global Hawk Team, including Rolls-Royce, Raytheon Company, L-3 Communications, the U.S. Air Force, and the Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency (DARPA). It performs high altitude, long endurance, and hazardous missions without putting pilots at risk. Although unmanned, the Global Hawk has met safety criteria of the Federal Aviation Administration that permits it to fly in controlled airspace. Its long-range capability permits it to fly un-refueled farther and remain on station longer than any other air vehicle. On a one-way mission, the Global Hawk can reach more than halfway around the earth’s surface. The Collier Trophy is awarded annually for the greatest achievement in aeronautics in America, with respect to improving performance, efficiency, or safety of air or space vehicles.

Employment Opportunities at HAI
Posted Tuesday, February 27, 2001 - 2:43 PM by News Staff
Helicopter Association International is a non-profit, professional trade association of over 1,400 member organizations from 70 nations. HAI is currently seeking responsible individuals for several staff openings. Our office is located in Old Town, Alexandria, Virginia, in a modern, well-maintained association campus just a brief walk from the King Street Metro station. We take pride in our excellent benefits package offered to eligible employees, which includes medical, dental, and vision coverage. We also provide a 401(k) retirement plan, sick and annual leave, and 10 paid holidays. We are proud to be an equal opportunity employer.

HAI has the following employment opportunities currently available. We encourage you to submit your resume with cover letter and salary expectations through one of the following options:

Mail: E. Meade
1635 Prince Street
Alexandria, VA 22314

Fax: (703) 683-4745
Attn: E. Meade

Current Employment Opportunities:

Communications Director
Serves as editor of Association’s quarterly, 4-color magazine. Responsible for editing Annual membership directory and other publications. Assists with media and public relations efforts. Position requires at least two years experience as magazine editor, good people skills, excellent written and verbal communication skills, PC proficiency, and 4-year degree in related field. Association, public relations, and aviation experience preferred.

Communications Assistant
Serves as assistant to the Communications Director. Duties include proofreading and editing, fact checking, research, organizing and filing. Will be involved in various aspects of Association publications and website. Must have good organizational and people skills, excellent written communication skills, attention to detail, and PC proficiency. Degree in related field, editing, and aviation experience preferred.

Legislative Assistant
Serves as assistant to the Director of Legislative Affairs. Duties include research and analysis of pending legislation, finalizing congressional and membership correspondence, maintaining awareness of local, regional, and national aviation issues, and general assistance in legislative efforts including the monitoring of pending legislation and the preparation of Association testimony. Degree, Capitol Hill or legislative experience\aviation experience and familiarity with FARs preferred. Must have good organizational and people skills, above-average communication skills, attention to detail, and PC proficiency.

Sales Manager
Responsible for exhibit sales for large annual trade show, ad sales for quarterly magazine, member services directory, and website. Degree, PC proficiency to include word processing, spreadsheet and Internet required. Excellent people skills, written and verbal communications skills, and 2 years experience required. Association and aviation experience preferred.

Accounting Assistant
Must be detail oriented and have excellent communications skills. Two years experience, accurate data entry and keyboard skills (40 wpm). Aviation background and knowledge of Solomon accounting package preferred.

Executive Assistant
Position is detail-oriented, deadline driven and provides assistance and support to Executive Vice President. 4-year degree and at least 5 years experience, high proficiency in Word or Word Perfect, excellent writing skills and transcription experience required. Aviation experience preferred.

FAA Signs Aviation Safety Agreement with Israel
Posted Tuesday, February 27, 2001 - 9:34 AM by News Staff
On February 7, the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) and its Israeli counterpart, the Civil Aviation Administration of Israel (CAAI), signed an agreement that expands the scope of an existing bilateral agreement between the two countries. This agreement recognizes the competence, professionalism, and skills of the respective organizations and their commitment to international aviation safety. It defines the civil aeronautical products, parts, and appliances eligible for import into the United States and Israel. It also allows for each civil aviation authority to maximize the use of the exporting civil aviation authority’s aircraft certification system to ensure that the airworthiness standards of the importing civil aviation authority are satisfied. The agreement represents the culmination of a 30-year bilateral relationship in the area of aircraft certification between the United States and Israel.

Enstrom Announces FAA Certification of 480B Model
Posted Tuesday, February 27, 2001 - 9:33 AM by News Staff
The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has granted type certification for Enstrom’s 480B model, an enhanced version of its turbine-powered 480 helicopter. The 480B development was initiated in 1999 and first publicly announced at HELI-EXPO 2000 in Las Vegas. The objective of the model upgrade was to increase the useful load by 13 percent, improve the cyclic control system, and incorporate some maintainability enhancements.

As now certified, the 480B retains the Rolls-Royce 250-C20W turbine power plant, but utilizes more of the installed power through the qualification of an upgraded power train at higher power levels. Enhancements compared to the 480 model include: an improved main rotor gearbox with pressurized oil filtration and an oil cooler; a 6 percent increase in take-off (five-minute) power and a three percent increase in continuous power; a 150-pound increase in maximum gross weight from 2,850 pounds to 3,000 pounds; introduction of control system vibration absorbers for significantly reduced cyclic loads; improved main rotor dampers for enhanced serviceability; and improved main rotor flapping bearings with oil lubrication and sight gauge for improved serviceability.

Jet-Care International Unveils Online Engine Monitoring Package
Posted Tuesday, February 27, 2001 - 9:32 AM by News Staff
Jet-Care International has introduced an online aircraft engine monitoring software package that allows users to maintain the most detailed picture of an aircraft engine’s health wherever they are. The new Internet program Engine Condition Health Online (ECHO) is different from other online offerings because of its advanced engine analysis features. ECHO was developed in response to customer requests for faster, easier, more intelligent information about their engines. For more information, visit Jet-Care’s website.

HAI Announces 2001-2002 AMT Scholarship Award Program
Posted Monday, February 26, 2001 - 9:00 AM by News Staff
The Helicopter Association International is pleased to announce the 2001-2002 Aviation Maintenance Technician Scholarship Award Program. The program was founded by the HAI Technical Committee to promote the choice of helicopter maintenance as a career. Each of the four scholarship winners will have a choice of one of the following courses made available by the helicopter airframe and engine manufacturers or by Southern Illinois University:

Agusta Aerospace Corporation A109 Series
Bell Helicopter Textron, Inc. (any model)
Eurocotper — A-Star, Twin Star, BO105, BK117, or Dauphin models
MD Helicopters 500/600/900 series
Pratt & Whitney Canada, Inc. — PT6T, PT6B-36/-37, or PW-206 engines
Rolls-Royce/Allison 250 Engine (any model)
Turbomeca Arriel 1 Series Engine
Southern Illinois University Bell 47 & 205 series

In addition, the first-place winner will be awarded $1,500 from HAI to assist with expenses, such as travel and accommodation. Those finishing second, third, or fourth will receive $1,000, $750, and $500, respectively for assistance with expenses. Applicants should list courses in order of preference. Courses will be awarded by preference in order of award placement. All FAA written exams must be completed, final grades received, and the oral or practical exams must be completed prior to attending the chosen school (not necessarily prior to applying for the scholarship). International students should have their respective country’s equivalent test completed.

Application forms may be obtained by contacting HAI at (703) 683-4646, or downloaded from www.rotor.com. The application form must be typed or printed. Upon completion, applications may be faxed to (703) 683-4745, or mailed to HAI, 1635 Prince Street, Alexandria, Virginia, 22314-2818. Applications must be received no later than October 1, 2001. The winners will be announced at HAI’s Technical Committee meeting held in conjunction with HELI-EXPO 2002 in Orlando, Florida, from February 14 - 16. Questions concerning the HAI Scholarship Award Program should be directed to Bill Sanderson at HAI.

Engine Mounts, Tail Rotor Bearings Available from Lord Corporation
Posted Monday, February 26, 2001 - 8:54 AM by News Staff
Since receiving Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) certification in September 2000, Lord Corporation has delivered over 50 elastomeric tail rotor bearing kits to Bell 206 operators. PHI and Papllion were the first customers to install the Lord bearings and to date they have accumulated over 2,000 hours of maintenance free operations. The U.S. Army is also evaluating the elastomeric bearings on their TH 67 fleet. The Kern County Sheriff’s Department and other law enforcement agencies have installed the Lord bearings on their OH58 aircraft.

Lord Corporation also announces remanufactured tail rotor bearings for MD500 A/C helicopters, as well as offering overhaul of the tail rotor fork assembly. Remanufactured parts are available at www.lordmpd.com.
Lord is also offering a complete overhaul exchange program for Sikorsky S-61/H-3 engine mounts. New mount components are available directly from Lord.

People in the News
Posted Monday, February 26, 2001 - 8:53 AM by News Staff
Chris Adams has been promoted to the new post of Director Product Marketing by FlightSafety International. He was previously the product marketing manager at the Greater Philadelphia/Wilmington Center. He joined the company in 1998. Adams will work with all of the FlightSafety marketing organization to support and enhance the performance of the company’s product marketing managers. He is a graduate of West Point, a former U.S. Army officer and an OH-58 pilot.

FlightSafety has named Jim Dolle Assistant Manager of the Gulfstream Learning Center in Savannah, Georgia. Dolle comes to FlightSafety from the North Carolina Department of Labor, Division of Occupational Safety and Health. Previously he was a Navy aviator holding command assignments. He retired from the Navy as a Captain.

FAA Issues SAIB on Bell Model 47 Main Rotor Grips
Posted Friday, February 23, 2001 - 9:33 AM by News Staff
The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has issued a Special Airworthiness Information Bulletin (SAIB) SW-01-13 concerning the Bell Model 47 helicopter main rotor grips. The SAIB provides facts and background information on the decisions that resulted in airworthiness directive AD-2000-18-51. This SAIB does not change any AD requirements that are presently in force.
New Construction-Leaseback Program For Airport Sponsors And Owners
Posted Friday, February 23, 2001 - 9:32 AM by News Staff
The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has introduced a new program for replacing Airport Traffic Control Towers (ATCTs) that supplements the traditional ATCT Federal-construction replacement program at the nation’s airports. This new program, called the Construction-Leaseback Program (CLP), will augment the regular tower construction program and provide for faster replacement of ATCT and/or TRACON facilities, often at lower overall cost. Under the Construction-Leaseback Program, the airport sponsor or owner builds the ATCT and/or TRACON to FAA-approved plans and specifications using its own sources of capital. It then leases the completed facility back to the FAA at a rate that will fully amortize the cost of financing the construction over a 20-year period and provide as well for adequate maintenance of the facility. Participation in the CLP is open to all airports with existing Airport Traffic Control Tower facilities that are in need of replacement.

Scholarship Endowed for Aviation Students
Posted Friday, February 23, 2001 - 9:31 AM by News Staff
The Joseph S. Vorbeck Scholarship is now endowed due to numerous contributions allowing for $10,000 in scholarships to be given annually to students in the professional pilot program at the University of Cincinnati, Clermont College. The scholarship is named in memory of Vorbeck, an aviation pioneer, who invented the three-day ground school along with Sporty’s Pilot Shop Chairman and founder Hal Shevers. Vorbeck was involved in aviation education at both the University of Illinois and Purdue University. He also co-founded Sporty’s Academy and spearheaded the establishment of the University of Cincinnati’s professional pilot program. For further information on the Vorbeck Scholarship, contact the Office of Community Outreach at the University of Cincinnati Clermont College, (513) 732-5293.

HFI Grand Prize Winner Announced at HELI-EXPO
Posted Thursday, February 22, 2001 - 12:18 PM by News Staff
The Helicopter Foundation International (HFI) capped its annual industry reception at HELI-EXPO 2001 by drawing for a two-year lease on a PT Cruiser, donated by DaimlerChrysler Capital Services (debis). The lucky winner was Jeffrey Chamberlain, Field Maintenance Supervisor with Air Methods.

Chamberlain started his aviation career as a mechanic in 1983 with the U.S. Army. He joined Air Methods in June 1988 as a mechanic in Texarkana, Arkansas. He currently holds an Airframe and Powerplant license and a multi-engine commercial pilot’s certificate. HFI and DaimlerChrysler Capital Services congratulate Jeff on his prize.

The HFI Industry Reception, along with the Grand Prize drawing, were just part of the HFI’s Heritage Celebration at Heli-Expo. Earlier in the evening, HFI inaugurated the HFI Heritage Hall of Fame by honoring Igor Sikorsky and Carl Brady as the first two recipients of the Agusta Heritage Award. Presentations were made to Sikorksy’s son, Sergei, and Brady’s son, Carl Brady, Jr. The Hall of Fame, which will become an annual event, was founded by HFI to honor those individuals who have dedicated their life to building the helicopter industry.

As HFI continues to expand its programs, services, and archives, raising funds to support this growth is becoming increasingly important. The major fundraiser is the HFI Heritage Celebration held annually at HELI-EXPO. Money is raised through sponsorships and ticket sales. HFI gratefully acknowledges its 2001 sponsors:
Heritage Award Sponsor — Agusta
Grand Prize — DaimlerChrysler Capital Services (debis)
Platinum Sponsors — Agusta Aerospace Corp., Bell Helicopter, Bell/Agusta, Eurocopter, HAI, Honeywell, MD Helicopters, Rotor & Wing
Silver Sponsors — AIN Convention News, B/CA & Show News, HeliValue$, Pratt & Whitney Canada, Rolls-Royce
Bronze — Eckhart Helicopter Sales, Garmin, Keystone Helicopter Corp., Metro Aviation
HFI Supporter — FLYING Magazine, Tradewind International
K-MAX Helicopter Begins Operating in Taiwan with PHI
Posted Thursday, February 22, 2001 - 12:17 PM by News Staff
A Kaman K-MAX® helicopter owned by Petroleum Helicopters Inc. (PHI) has begun operating in Taiwan where it will be providing lift power to a major power station construction project. PHI and its partner in Taiwan, DailyAir Corporation, will utilize the K-MAX in support of construction of a hydroelectric power station and its related roads, dam, and tunnel system on the northeast coast of Taiwan. The project is expected to take approximately two years to complete. The K-MAX will be used to transport building materials, supplies, and equipment to the various remote construction sites.

Lord Rotary Wing Remanufactured Parts On-Line
Posted Thursday, February 22, 2001 - 12:16 PM by News Staff
Lord Corporation is now offering rotary wing aircraft remanufactured parts on-line. This latest Lord development allows simplicity in placing orders, fast turnaround, and guaranteed next-day shipping for qualified buyers. Customers simply visit the Lord website at www.lordmpd.com and click on the Reman logo. Lord Corporation’s worldwide manufacturing capabilities give customers on-time delivery at an affordable cost, and now with the ease of on-line ordering.

STC Approved for Eurocopter AS350 AeroFilter
Posted Monday, February 12, 2001 - 12:16 PM by News Staff
Filtration Development Company/AeroFilter and Dallas Airmotive, Inc., worldwide distributor for the AeroFilter, announced certification of the long-awaited Engine Inlet Barrier Filter System (IBF) for the Eurocopter AS350 series rotorcraft. This new IBF model joins the company’s existing filter products designed for Bell 206B/OH-58, 206L, and MD OH6 helicopters. The MD500 is pending supplemental type certificate (STC) approval. The system eliminates erosion and foreign object damage to the entire engine, and provides significant life extension to every engine component and accessory. Because no air bleed is required and clean filter pressure drop is negligible, lower operational temperatures can decrease operational costs. Even in harsh environments, cleaning the filter is only required every 100 flight hours.

BMS Announces New Portable Hand-Held Microwave Receive Site
Posted Monday, February 12, 2001 - 12:15 PM by News Staff
Broadcast Microwave Services, Inc., (BMS) has introduced the SKYLink, a new hand-held microwave receive site. SKYLink weighs less than 6 pounds and is completely portable. It contains a microwave receiver, omnidirectional antenna, an ultra-bright easy-to-see monitor, and a battery with a full hour capacity. The weather resistant carry bag has a neck and waist strap, allowing hands-free operation and an integrated sun hood to aid in direct sunlight viewing. SKYLink is designed to go in the field to provide a live microwave downlink at the scene. Microwave downlinking provides ground personnel with a live aerial perspective. Contact BMS at HELI-EXPO.

Parker Aerospace Named Approved Source for S-76 Wheel and Brake
Posted Monday, February 12, 2001 - 12:14 PM by News Staff
Parker Hannifin Corporation’s Aircraft Wheel & Brake Division has received approval from Sikorsky Aircraft to use Parker’s main wheel and brake on all B and C models of the S-76 helicopter. Parker’s main wheels and brakes provide lower acquisition and operating costs and initial feedback on field testing has been positive. Approval for the A model is expected soon. The new forged aluminum wheels are designed to be stronger and more corrosion resistant than existing cast magnesium wheels and are projected to provide longer service life in the field. The wheel bearing incorporates an integral seal for ease of maintenance. Parker’s new S-76 cast aluminum brake cylinder is also designed to provide better corrosion resistance than the magnesium design.

ILS B2B Sets New Record for Inventory Listing Growth
Posted Monday, February 12, 2001 - 12:13 PM by News Staff
Inventory Locator Service, Inc. (ILS), a Business to Business electronic marketplace serving the aviation and marine industries, today announced that it set new records in 2000 for inventory listing growth, overhaul listings and transaction growth. In particular, ILS experienced a tremendous growth of 185 percent in web-based client usage. Inventory listings grew by nearly 10 percent and reached over 43 million line items, representing more than 5 billion parts. Overhaul capability listings, where more than 600 companies list items that they are FAA approved to repair, exceeded 1.6 million line items. Transactions increased by over 14 percent. Subscriber accesses, the number of times each day that customers use ILS to locate parts and services via the Internet and dial-up networks, reached a rate of more than 29,000 accesses per business day. Memphis-based ILS is a business unit of Aviall and enables subscribers to buy and sell commercial aviation and marine parts, equipment and services.

ATP Offers Demonstrations, Training Seminars at HELI-EXPO
Posted Thursday, February 8, 2001 - 6:49 AM by News Staff
All rotor operators and mechanics are invited to view a demonstration of various helicopter products in the Aircraft Technical Publishers (ATP) Booth #2101 during the HELI-EXPO 2001 at the Anaheim Convention Center on February 11, 12, and 13.

ATP continues to expand and develop its line of easy-to-use reference tools for the helicopter industry. All ATP regulatory and maintenance libraries are based on a single source concept where thousands of publications from manufacturers and government agencies are logically organized for immediate usability. ATP consistently upgrades and enhances products for over 100 popular models.

ATP introduces a new maintenance library on CD-ROM for the Eurocopter Deutschland BO-105. The Airframe library incorporates the Ground Support Manual, Maintenance Manual, Parts Catalog, Pilot’s Checklist, Repair Manual, Service Information, Wiring Diagrams, and Flight Manuals into an easy-to-use format. BO-105 operators can further expand and complete their maintenance library with the Allison Engine microfiche product that indexes the Service Information, Maintenance Manual, and Parts Catalog for the 250-C18 and 250-20 model series.

ATP offers user-friendly aviation maintenance planning and record keeping software. Designed by aviation professionals, Maintenance Director revolutionizes maintenance management and solves an industry need by providing an organized, space-saving accompaniment to traditional status boards and paper logbooks. A Schedules product for the Bell 206A/B is immediately available that contains pre-made maintenance programs to save users hours of research and manual maintenance event entry. Monthly subscription updates ensure that the information, including Airworthiness Directives, Service Bulletins, Type Certificates, and Maintenance requirements for the Bell 206A/B, is current and up-to-date. ATP also offers a FAST START SERVICE for any new or existing Maintenance Director user. Ideal for any maintenance center with limited internal resources and/or time restraints, FAA-approved mechanics with Inspection Authorization (IA) on the ATP team will review copies of a user’s maintenance records and enter the most current status into Maintenance Director. This turn-around service allows users to be up and running at optimum productivity as soon as the product is received.

All rotor operators and mechanics are invited to attend Maintenance Director Training during HELI-EXPO. The Seminar will be held in room 210A at the Anaheim Convention Center on February 11, 12, and 13 at 8:00 a.m.
People in the News
Posted Thursday, February 8, 2001 - 6:48 AM by News Staff
Dallas Airmotive Inc. announced the promotion of Bruce E. Weaver to Chief Financial Officer. Weaver became the company’s Director of Finance in 1995 and was promoted to Vice President, Finance in 1998.

Marsa Hightower Bounds, the former Senior Manager of Quality Assurance, has been named Corporate Director of Quality Assurance for Dallas Airmotive. In her new position, Ms. Bounds will oversee and coordinate the quality assurance activities of the company and maintain responsibility for quality programs.

Dallas Airmotive also announced the promotion of Brian Keith Shaw to Director of Human Resources. Shaw is the former Human Resources Manager for the company’s Dallas, Texas engine overhaul facility and the company’s Regional Turbine Centers.

Belfort Instrument Announces New Model DigiWx
Posted Wednesday, February 7, 2001 - 9:42 AM by News Staff
Belfort Instrument announced new price and model options for DigiWx, the first automated local weather reporting system to utilize handheld digital display units for visual data for both pre-flight and in-flight use. DigiWx is a highly customizable and modular aviation-grade professional weather tower. It represents an affordable option to the government-sponsored Automated Surface Observing System (ASOS) and Automated Weather Observation System (AWOS). DigiWx uses state-of-the-art sensors to provide real-time aviation-quality data that can be accessed on the ground or in the air on a handheld digital receiver.

Van Isle Avionics Joins British Columbia Aerospace Association, Prepares for HELI-EXPO
Posted Wednesday, February 7, 2001 - 9:41 AM by News Staff
Van Isle President and General Manager Adrienne Robinson announced that the company has become a member of the Aerospace Industry Association of British Columbia (AIABC). “We feel that the value of the association meets our needs to market our services internationally,” said Robinson. “As a British Columbia company competing in the global market, AIABC membership helps us to penetrate foreign markets as part of a larger group.”

Visit Van Isle Avionics at HELI-EXPO 2001, where the company will have representatives on-hand to demonstrate new and innovative products for the airborne law enforcement industry. Van Isle’s international capabilities have recently expanded by the opening of a second facility at El Cajon, California. Current projects include total installation suites in two new Eurocopter EC120 helicopters.

People in the News
Posted Wednesday, February 7, 2001 - 9:40 AM by News Staff
Aerospace Products International (API) has appointed three new vice presidents. Don Cox has been named Vice President of General Aviation Sales and Services. Cox jointed API in 1994 where he initiated and served as the Piper Program Manager. He has also held the positions of Director of Technical Services, Managing Director of Customer Relations, and Senior Director of Customer Relations. Glen Golden has been named Vice President of Product Services. Golden has been with API since its inception in 1988 and has held the positions of Operations Manager, Director of Sales, Director of Inventory & Logistics, and Senior Director of Product Supply. Alan Arnett has been named Vice President of API Asia Pacific, API’s Logistics and Distribution Facility in the Philippines. Arnett has been with API for 11 years and has been in the aviation industry for more than 22 years. In addition to a strong background in airline and international sales, his positions at API have included Regional Sales Manager, National Airline Sales Manager, Director of Sales and Marketing, and Director of International Sales and Development.

Aviation Week announced new editorial leadership positions. Lee Ewing has been named editor-in-chief of Aviation Week’s Aerospace Daily newsletters, succeeding Richard Tuttle, who recently retired from full-time editorial dutes after serving for seven years in the position and 27 years as managing editor. Ewing joined Aerospace Daily from Tokyo, where he was editor of the Pacific Stars and Stripes. Tuttle was appointed to a new position — senior editor for defense and space for Aerospace Daily. He will continue to write news stories, analyses, and commentaries on defense and space issues. Brett Davis was appointed managing editor, succeeding Frank Morring, Jr., who has been named senior space technology editor of Aviation Week & Space Technology magazine. Also moving to Aviation Week & Space Technology is John Croft, who becomes the magazine’s new transport editor.


Aviation Maintenance Technician Award Winners
Posted Tuesday, February 6, 2001 - 9:18 AM by News Staff
HAI is pleased to announce the winners of the Technical Committee’s 2000 Aviation Maintenance Technician Scholarship awards, and the maintenance training program they have selected.

First place: Clarence Dean Harkness, Bell Helicopter Textron
Second place: Manuel De Jesus Marin, American Eurocopter Corporation
Third place (tie): Guy P. Lister, Turbomeca
Third place (tie): Pierpaolo Andraghetti, MD Helicopters

In addition to attendance at the training programs, each of the award winners will receive cash awards to assist with their travel and accommodation expenses. HAI will soon announce details about the 2001-2002 Aviation Maintenance Technician Scholarship Award Program.

Bearing Inspection Reaches Goal of “Remanufactured Bearings in 21 Days”
Posted Tuesday, February 6, 2001 - 9:17 AM by News Staff
Bearing Inspection, Inc. has reached it goal of delivering remanufactured bearings to customers in 21 days. The faster turnaround time sets a new standard in the industry for maintenance, repair, and overhaul of aircraft engine bearings. The company invites you to stop by their booth at HELI-EXPO 2001 (Booth #127) and learn about the advantages and savings of faster service.

Columbia Helicopter Company Appears on TLC
Posted Tuesday, February 6, 2001 - 9:17 AM by News Staff
Columbia Helicopters, a world leader in heavy-lift helicopter operations, will appear in a segment of “Monster Machines” on The Learning Channel on February 7 and 10. The episode of “Monster Machines” is dedicated to different types of industrial cranes. The segment features several of the company’s huge helicopters, working on a selective logging operation in California. The program also includes interviews with Columbia’s employees, and video of the company’s other work with helicopters.
One-on-One Business Counseling Offered at HELI-EXPO
Posted Monday, February 5, 2001 - 9:22 AM by News Staff
On February 13th and 14th during HELI-EXPO 2001, the U.S. Department of Commerce (USDC) will be offering one on one business counseling sessions with a Commercial Service International Trade Specialist. The One-on-One Business Counseling is open to all companies, but it is particularly aimed towards new-to-export or new-to-market companies to learn about USDC’s export services to gain or increase their presence in international markets. These services include trade shows, trade missions, business counseling, trade lead opportunities, industry market reports, and other international business facilitation and marketing activities. For more information on this FREE service please visit www.oceac.com/Aerospace/Heliexpo2001BC and sign up today!

HAI, Trade Associations Respond to Life-Limited Parts NPRM
Posted Monday, February 5, 2001 - 9:20 AM by News Staff
An industry group consisting of HAI, Aeronautical Repair Station Association, Aircraft Electronics Association, Airline Suppliers Association, National Air Carriers Association, and the Professional Aviation Maintenance Association formally asked the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) to modify a regulatory proposal concerning life-limited parts. The document was filed in response to an FAA Notice of Proposed Rulemaking (NPRM). The industry proposal would codify some of the industry’s best practices concerning life-limited parts. These comments were offered in response to an FAA proposal that would have a significant negative effect on the industry with little additional safety benefit.

The FAA issued the NPRM in response to a Congressional mandate, but the effect of the NPRM was far broader than the Congressional requirement. The NPRM could have precluded some common (and safe) business transactions — the FAA’s accompanying descriptions of the proposal make it clear that this was not the FAA's intent. The industry’s recommendation meets the intent of Congress without imposing an undue burden on industry. It does this by codifying the safe practices currently used by the industry. This approach would reward the vast majority of repair stations and other aviation companies that have historically supported safety, while requiring other companies to begin implementing the common industry practice of transferring current life status records with transferred life-limited parts.

The trade associations’ proposal would improve aviation safety by assuring implementation of good record-keeping practices. Under the proposal, owners and possessors of life-limited parts would be required to transfer current status records with the parts when sold or otherwise transferred, and installers would be required to make reference to these records to assure that a life-limited part was not installed inappropriately.

Air Pocket Guide Available from Sporty’s
Posted Monday, February 5, 2001 - 9:16 AM by News Staff
The Air Pocket Guide is designed for flight instructors and students as a pocket-size compendium of essential information. The Air Pocket Guide includes information on airspace, VFR/IFR flight planning, navaids, IFR procedures, weather, and more. This easy-to-use reference book serves as an addition to training materials. It has a spiral binding for easy use in flight. For more information, contact Sporty’s Pilot Shop at (800) LIFTOFF.

Schedule Correction for Manufacturer’s Technical Briefings
Posted Friday, February 2, 2001 - 9:20 AM by News Staff
HELI-EXPO 2001 is now only days away. HAI again alerts attendees that the wrong dates were published for the Manufacturer’s Technical Briefings held during the show. As fate would have it, the wrong dates were duplicated in the Fall 2000 Maintenance Update issue.

The correct dates for the Manufacturer’s Technical Briefings are February 11 and 12 (Sunday and Monday). We apologize for any inconvenience.

Schweizer Helicopters on Display at HELI-EXPO 2001
Posted Friday, February 2, 2001 - 9:17 AM by News Staff
Schweizer Aircraft Corporation plans an impressive display at HELI-EXPO. This year’s display will feature a 2001 Model 333 with deluxe interior, a well-outfitted 300C on high stance landing gear, and a 300CB with a comprehensive instrument training panel. The Model 333 will be displayed courtesy of Fuchs Helicopter of Schindellegi, Switzerland. Fuchs will operate this helicopter, the first Model 333 to be delivered to Europe, in the Swiss Alps. The Model 300C will be on display courtesy of Carla Tanya Kochmann of Livermore, California. Carla uses her 300C to commute to work and looks forward to aiding the U.S. Coast Guard with search and rescue and aerial support missions. The Model 300CB will be provided by Schweizer’s new southern California sales and service center, Sun Air Aviation of Camarillo.

“Mega” STC Finalized for Los Angeles Fire’s Bell 412EP
Posted Friday, February 2, 2001 - 9:16 AM by News Staff
Jet Source, a full service fixed base operator located at the Palomar-McClellan Airport in North San Diego County, California, was recently awarded the final supplemental type certificate (STC# SR01081LA) for its work on the City of Los Angeles Fire Department’s Bell 412EP helicopter. LAFD’s new 412, called Fire 4, will be used for fire suppression, search and rescue (SAR), and Emergency Medical Service (EMS) applications. Incorporating over 36 sub-systems and 96 individual components, the STC was unique in that it incorporated new systems with existing STC’d products for the 412 under a “Mega” STC for the complete project. Because of the complexity of the project as a whole and the systems involved, Jet Source was directed by the FAA to accomplish the entire completion under one STC.

Update on Bell Model 47 Main Rotor Grips
Posted Thursday, February 1, 2001 - 11:09 AM by News Staff
A meeting between the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) Rotorcraft Directorate, HAI, and the Experimental Aircraft Association (EAA) was held on January 29 to discuss the Bell Model 47 main rotor grip airworthiness actions. In support of this meeting, Bell Helicopter Textron provided information concerning their experience with the grips, and their plans for continued support of the Model 47. As a result of this meeting, the following actions were identified and agreed to be accomplished:

• The FAA will review the inspection interval for pre-1,200-hour and post-1,200-hour grips. This review will evaluate the proposed 300-hour interval with eddy current inspection techniques.
• The airworthiness process to be used to modify the inspections will be a final rule with request for comments. The FAA will issue an airworthiness directive (AD) to supercede the current AD.
• The AD will require eddy current inspection and reporting of findings.
• Transport Canada and the Australian Airworthiness Authority will be asked to provide their eddy current process for evaluation by the FAA for inclusion in the revised airworthiness action. They will also be requested to provide locations where eddy current inspections can be accomplished.
• The FAA will re-investigate the history of the Canadian helicopter grip accident.
• Bell Helicopter will conduct crack growth testing of a grip with a known crack. Bell will provide the FAA with test results at 600-hour intervals. As the testing progresses, the FAA will re-evaluate the recurrent inspection procedures.
• The FAA will prepare a General Aviation Alert, coordinated with HAI and EAA, to discuss the results of this meeting and future actions.
• FAA/HAI/EAA will survey the non-destructive inspection industry for locations of eddy current inspection sites.
• Credit will be given for inspections previously accomplished in the new airworthiness action.

The FAA is expected to issue the General Aviation Alert during HELI-EXPO 2001.

TRW Emphasizes Its Growing Helicopter Presence at HELI-EXPO 2001
Posted Thursday, February 1, 2001 - 11:06 AM by News Staff
TRW Inc.’s growing presence in the helicopter equipment market can be evidenced at the TRW Aeronautical Systems (Lucas Aerospace) stand, #1341, Hall C, at HELI-EXPO 2001. TRW Aeronautical Systems is continuing to capture market share in helicopter flight controls, hoists and winches, electric power generation, engine systems, and power transmission. The Company will be highlighting a new technology for potential application on rotary and tilt-wing primary flight controls. TRW Aeronautical Systems Integrated Actuation Package (IAP)™ aims to replace the hydraulic power supply to primary flight controls with electric. Many conventional helicopter flight control actuation systems rely on high-pressure hydraulic tubes to supply the hydraulic pressure needed to move each control actuator. The goal of power-by-wire is to eliminate the hydraulic connection by providing electrical power straight to the actuators. The benefits are enhanced survivability and aircraft maintainability and reduced weight and aircraft ground service time. TRW has proven the technology for fixed-wing application and is pursuing opportunities to provide the same benefits on rotary and tilt-wing aircraft. A TRW IAP will be on display at the stand.

TRW Aeronautical Systems will be highlighting its state-of-the-art generator control unit (GCU) for use in 28-volt DC electrical power generating systems. This GCU features a programmable micro-controller that allows customizing of protection and control logic and currently has applications on the MD Explorer, Bell/Agusta 609, and the Bell H-1. Also featured will be 200-, 300-, and 400-ampere 28-volt DC starter generators currently flying on a wide range of helicopters. The starter generators have a dual-purpose design performing both engine starting and power generating functions in helicopters and various small gas turbine engine installations.

The company will also be displaying both its externally and internally mounted rescue hoists proven in military and civil service around the world. TRW Aeronautical Systems hoists are used extensively by the U.S. Army and U.S. Coast Guard for air/sea medical evacuation missions. Also on display will be TRW Aeronautical Systems rotating flexible input drive shaft, which transmits power from the engine to the gearbox and from the gearbox throughout the tail rotor. The company has produced more than 135,000 aircraft shafts and couplings flying aboard more than 65 different airframes.