Story ID: 
Airplus, Hensoldt Sign New Distribution Agreement
By: Jerry Siebenmark
Caption: Under the agreement, Airplus will distribute Hemsoldt's new lightweight crash recorders.
Word Count: 175
MRO provider Airplus Maintenance GmbH will distribute Hensoldt’s new ED155 lightweight crash recorders (LCR)—the LCR100 and LCR200—under a new agreement between the two companies. Hensoldt’s LCR units combine voice, data, and image recording in a single device weighing about one kilogram (2.2 pounds). Data captured by its LCRs include flight altitude and direction, engine temperature and speed, and voice communication from the cockpit.

Germany-based Airplus is currently seeking an STC from the European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) for the first aircraft types—such as the LCR100 for the Cessna 208 Caravan—by the end of the year, followed by FAA validation. “Airplus’s expertise in systems integration and its experience in getting approval for customized solutions are optimal preconditions for successful cooperation,” said Hensoldt head of avionics Stefan Kolditz.

Based at Friedrichshafen Airport, Airplus provides MRO services for business and general aviation aircraft. It also specializes in VIP and special-mission aircraft and holds EASA approval for Part 21J (design), Part 21G (production), and Part 145 (maintenance) services.