Story ID: 
Inflatable Seatbelts Move Step Closer to STCs
By: Gordon Gilbert
Caption: The FAA issued special conditions that would apply to STCs of AmSafe inflatable seatbelts in a variety of general aviation airplanes, including Beech, Cess
Word Count: 140
The FAA issued special conditions that would apply to STCs of AmSafe inflatable seatbelts in a variety of general aviation airplanes, including Beech, Cessna and Piper singles through turboprops, as well as the Learjet 23. Meanwhile, AmSafe is also discussing business jet inflatable seatbelts with Cessna, Dassault and Raytheon Aircraft, according to Joseph Smith, general manager of AmSafe’s Inflatables Group, though “mainly for divans.” The seatbelts would enable passengers to occupy divan seats for takeoff and landing. Phoenix-based AmSafe claims it has delivered more than 10,000 inflatable seatbelts for airliners and general aviation aircraft. Adam Aircraft selected the system in 2004 for the cockpit seats in its A700 very light jet, which is scheduled for certification late this year. The FAA routinely issues special conditions to cover aircraft designs for which it does not have applicable airworthiness regulations or appropriate safety standards.