Dart Aerospace has received FAA supplemental type certificate (STC) amendment approval for the installation of its Fire Attack System (FAS) for Airbus Helicopters H145D2 and D3 five-blade models. It was previously approved for installation on the H145C2.
The system mounts on the underside of the helicopter and features the ability to convert a payload of water into fire-retardant foam as needed during a mission. Water/retardant is dropped via two hydraulically actuated drop doors, while a hover refill system allows the crew to refill the water tank. The FAS is certified for day/night VFR operations and can be installed and removed in less than 30 minutes.
Specifications include a capacity of 260 gallons of water and 14 gallons of foam, a system weight of 566 pounds, a hover refill rate of 450 gallons per minute, and a never-exceed speed of 125 knots with either the hover pump installed or removed.
Dart fire attack systems are in use worldwide. The company holds more than 1,500 STCs and offers a portfolio of mission equipment and related services, replacement parts, and tools for civil and military operators, completion centers, and MRO facilities. Dart's product line includes aerial firefighting systems, flotation systems, landing gear, interior and exterior accessories, cargo expansion, cable cutters, environmental control systems, and ground support equipment.