Airbus Helicopters has received EASA certification for the Rig’N Fly GPS-navigation-assisted software program, which aims to make approaches and takeoffs safer and simple at platform-based helipads. Initially available on the H225 heavy twin as an option, it will also be offered on the H175 super-medium twin (late this year) and the in-development H160 medium twin (starting in 2018).
“Rig’N Fly reduces pilot workload,” Airbus Helicopters operational marketing director Régis Magnac told AIN. It allows the rotorcraft’s crew to focus on monitoring flight parameters and the outside environment. Once the approach is loaded, only two pilot inputs are required: the first is to engage the approach mode and the second is to choose to continue the approach once the missed-approach point is reached. If the pilot can see the platform, he chooses to continue the approach. Otherwise, he decides to go around.
Approach flight paths will thus be much more standardized. In the offset-approach mode, the trajectory will be parallel to a direct approach. That makes a go-around safer, as the path ahead will be obstacle-free. Thanks to the better preparation, the frequency of incidents such as wrong-deck landings is expected to be reduced.
Rig’N Fly uses a barometric altimeter, dual radar altimeters, dual GPS and weather radar. The interface centers on an enhanced cursor-control device and a digital map. Thanks to the latter, the flight-plan map can be merged with additional environmental factors, including weather radar and wind data, as well as platform location. It also includes the automatic information system, which alerts the pilot if a ship is in the path of the planned trajectory.