Cobham’s Helicopter Stability System Wins European, Chinese Approvals

Mineral Wells, Texas-based Cobham Commercial Systems (Booth No. C715) recently received European and Chinese STC approvals for its HeliSAS, a helicopter stability augmentation system and autopilot. HeliSAS is a two-axis, attitude-hold/attitude-command flight control system that “significantly reduces pilot workload and allows pilots to perform many cockpit functions hands free,” according to Cobham. The stability augmentation system (SAS) enhances flight stability by providing precise control during all modes of flight, regardless of wind conditions or aircraft center of gravity, the company further noted.

The EASA certification allows installation of HeliSAS on several Eurocopter models, including the AS350B/B1/B2/B3/BA/D and EC130B4, throughout the European Union. First installations of the SAS/autopilot device on European-registered Eurocopters started last month.