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A retrofittable crash-resistant fuel tank developed by Robertson Fuel Systems and StandardAero (formerly Vector Aerospace) for the Airbus AS350 and EC130 family of light-single helicopters recently received FAA certification. Launch partners Air Methods and WeatherTech Aviation have begun taking deliveries. Meanwhile, additional orders are being taken from operators around the world. It is expected that the fuel tank will receive EASA certification soon.
The tank is designed as a replacement for AS350 models, including the AS350C, AS350D/D1, AS350B/B1/B2/BA/B3, AS350B3e (H125) and EC130B4. Offering the same capacity as the legacy fuel cell, safey features include a self-sealing breakaway valve, vent system roll-over protection, a vent system flame arrestor, and a crash-resistant recessed sump drain valve, all aimed at increasing survivability for passengers and crew. In addition, the new tank complies with FAR 27.952 fuel system crash-resistance requirements.
“Through our longstanding record in successful STC development and Robertson’s established reputation in developing fuel-containment solutions, we have been able to jointly make this retrofittable crash-worthy fuel system a cost-effective reality for civilian, governmental and military operators worldwide,” said Elvis Moniz, StandardAero’s v-p of business development for airframe and avionics solutions.
Since the fuel tank was unveiled in 2015, focus on helicopter safety has continued to increase. The FAA Reauthorization Act was updated to include an amendment that requires the FAA to make helicopter owners aware of fuel system retrofits and urge them to install them.