Bell has selected the Genesys Aerosystems VFR HeliSAS autopilot and stability augmentation system with envelope protection as a new factory-installed option on the 505 Jet Ranger X light single. Key autopilot features include automatic recovery to near-level flight attitude at all airspeeds; stability engagement throughout all phases of flight; autopilot pitch control, including altitude hold, IAS hold, VS hold, GS autopilot roll control with HDG hold, NAV, LOC, and VOR; optional yaw control; and over- and under-speed protection.
VFR HeliSAS is also offered as a retrofit option in the field through a Genesys Aerosystems approved dealer. Current pricing for HeliSAS on the Bell 505 is $70,259 for two-axis and $85,259 for three-axis, not including installation. Shipping will begin in the coming months, dependent on customer location, following FAA certification and foreign authority validations.
"We are proud to introduce new safety features to HeliSAS for the Bell 505 including airspeed protection and yaw control,” said Genesys director of sales and marketing Jamie Luster. The HeliSAS system already has been installed in more than 1,000 small to medium helicopters, the company said.