Successful integration and
testing of the new Transition to Hover feature has now been completed in the
AS332L/L1 Super Puma helicopter.
As part of a new software
change for the Universal Avionics Flight Management System (FMS), Transition to
Hover is a must-have feature for any AS332L/L1 crew engaged in overwater SAR
operations, where the helicopter must be brought to a position to allow for
winch operations.
The Transition to Hover
feature allows pilots to mark a target, and the FMS provides an automatic
downwind leg with a course reversal. This positions the helicopter to a point
where the CDV-155 can perform the transition down and deceleration to a stable
hover downwind of the target. Transition to Hover allows a hands-free operation
for the crew, allowing them to focus on other mission critical tactics.
“This is an important
addition to the FMS/Multi-Missions Management System (MMMS) SAR capabilities,”
said Grady Dees,
Universal Avionics Director of Technical Sales. “The Mark-on-Target can be
activated during any MMMS operation, including during automatic search
patterns,” he added. “Just a single pilot action after Mark-On-Target allows the
automatic procedure to be executed.”
The flight testing in
Stavanger, Norway, was accomplished on a military helicopter with Heli-One as
part of an AS332L/L1 modernization program currently underway.
"The Transition to Hover
feature is a valuable tool for crews and can heavily benefit search and rescue
missions,” said Anthony DiNota,
President, Heli-One. “This solution was developed by Universal Avionics as they
continue to enhance their flight management systems, adding great mission value
for operators. We are pleased to collaborate with them and to work with our
customers to bring these solutions to operational capability." |