The FAA has issued a supplemental type certificate (STC) for Onboard Systems International's Talon HEC (human external cargo) dual cargo hook system for the Bell 429 helicopter. The STC covers new installations and retrofits of 429s with existing single- and dual-hook cargo hooks.
Onboard Systems' Talon cargo hook kit for the 429 includes fixed provisions, controls, and dual Talon LC hydraulic cargo hooks, according to the company. “The Onboard Systems kits offer improved ground clearance and enhanced safety features such as keeperless hooks that eliminate dynamic rollout, a high-reliability hydraulic backup release system, and an optional Onboard weighing system.”
Capable of use with Part 133 external load missions such as HEC, high-value cargo transport, utility line work, short-haul loads, and search-and-rescue, the maximum capacity for HEC missions is 1,322 pounds. Non-HEC external loads up to 3,000 pounds can be carried.
Both right- and left-hand pilot-in-command position installations are available, as are optional HEC Y-rope, longlines, rigging plates, and other equipment. Retrofit kits are compatible with Bell dual-hook factory-fixed provisions, according to Onboard, which is also offering fixed and removable provisions kits.
Customers have been asking for the Onboard HEC kit “for years,” said Mike Fox, v-p of sales and marketing. “We've just shipped our first system to our launch customer, Capitol Helicopters, and are now ramping up production to fulfill follow-on orders.”