German design organization Spaes has developed a modification for the installation of pulse lights on the Airbus Helicopters AS332. The lights were installed at an EASA Part 145 maintenance facility.
In this case, the pulse lights were necessary to improve visibility of the helicopter during firefighting missions. The Spaes modification includes mounting of the lights underneath the AS332’s nose using brackets specially designed for the lights, as well as circuit protection with a three-amp circuit breaker. A toggle switch in the cockpit is used to switch between “on,” “off,” and “pulse” modes.
Spaes made the modification as a minor change using its EASA Part 21J design organization qualification. According to the company, “This modification aligns with ongoing efforts to enhance flight safety through the integration of advanced lighting systems, which are essential for both operational effectiveness and regulatory compliance. The ability to switch between different light modes provides flexibility to pilots, allowing them to adjust their lighting settings depending on the situation.”
“Through the installation of the pulse lights, we have made an important contribution to the helicopter’s safety and visibility,” said David Stringfellow, Spaes design engineer for structures and cabins/interiors. “The close collaboration with the technicians and the thorough documentation guarantee that this modification has been implemented efficiently and reliably.”