True Blue Power announced Vertical Flight Solutions (VFS) by EuroTec has received Transport Canada Civil Aviation (TCCA) approval for the installation of the ultra-lightweight True Blue Power TB17 lithium-ion main ship battery on Airbus H125/AS350 Series helicopters. The battery integration requires no structural work and includes an NVIS-compatible cockpit annunciator. Additional approvals, including Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) and European Aviation Safety Agency (EASA), are expected to follow.
“Lithium-ion technology is the next generation of aircraft batteries,” said Adam Boyko, Avionics manager for EuroTec. “As aircraft technology and avionics advance, we are pleased to offer a main ship battery solution that follows suit. The popular Airbus H125/AS350 helicopter was the next logical step to integrate with our proven design.”
The TSO-certified TB17 lithium-ion battery provides significant operational and performance advantages to Airbus H125/AS350 owners and operators:
Reduced weight and increased useful load
· 52% lighter than nickel-cadmium (NiCad) alternatives
· 62% lighter than lead-acid alternatives
Faster, cooler engine starts
· Higher nominal output voltage results in more reliable and efficient turbine starts
Significantly reduced maintenance and operational costs
· 8-year (average) useful battery life
· Simplified, 2-year maintenance intervals
· Reduced replacement intervals
Superior high temperature and cold weather performance
· -40°C to +70°C (-40°F to +158°F)
· Automatic internal heater
Intelligent battery status communication to the cockpit
“EuroTec customers value our batteries ease of installation, proven safety, state-of-the-art monitoring system and their ability to eliminate cold weather problems,” said Erik Ritzman, Director of True Blue Power. “EuroTec continues to build a growing list of True Blue Power battery upgrade STC kits. In addition to the Airbus H125/AS350 and H130/EC130, STCs for the Airbus H135, Leonardo 109 and Bell 407 Series helicopters are in development.”
