Genesys Aerosystems has earned certification (STC and TSO) for an IFR-certified Helicopter Stability Augmentation System (HeliSAS) targeted for legacy Part 29 twin-engine helicopters.
The new IFR HeliSAS system is based on the popular VFR HeliSAS; however, the new system adds more robust hardware and redundancy for the harsher environment and heavier controls of larger helicopters. HeliSAS IFR is designed for two-axis (pitch and roll) autopilot configuration for dual-pilot IFR operations and three-axis (pitch, roll, and yaw) autopilot configuration for single-pilot IFR operati
ons.
“We have received an overwhelming number of inquiries from helicopter operators around the world about an IFR-certified version of our popular HeliSAS,” stated Jamie Luster, director of Sales and Marketing for Genesys Aerosystems. “Our IFR-certified HeliSAS for both single- and dual-pilot operations will give operators a system that delivers more performance at a lighter weight and lower cost than anything currently available on the market. In addition, the ease of use and installation allows owners to remove an older obsolete system and upgrade to a new high-performance SAS and autopilot with a new 24-month warranty.”
Key features of the Genesys Aerosystems IFR HeliSAS Autopilot and Stability Augmentation System include:
- Automatic recovery to near-level flight attitude at all airspeeds
- Beep trim to easily select altitude, vertical speed, airspeed, and heading targets while keeping hands on the controls
- Altitude-command and altitude-hold functions
- Fly-Through System engagement throughout all phases of flight from startup to shutdown
- Redundant, ruggedized flight control computers
- Fail operable system
- Full-authority with parallel actuators
- Altitude Preselect
- Two-axis (pitch and roll) for dual-pilot applications
- Three-axis (pitch, roll and yaw) for single-pilot applications
- Easy Installation – no series actuators, feel springs, or magnetic breaks
- Lightweight – Installed weight of less than 35 pounds
“Our first IFR HeliSAS STC and TSO are aboard the Airbus Helicopters EC-145e. These helicopters are heavily used by EMS, executive and special mission aircraft around the world. These operators need a capable and redundant SAS that allows them to operate in all kinds of weather,” Luster said. “The simple addition of the Genesys Aerosystems HeliSAS IFR autopilot will ensure that their crews and passengers will fly any mission in any weather with the greatest margin of safety.”
Luster said that the two-axis IFR HeliSAS autopilot system for Part 29 helicopters is priced at $186,475 (not including installation) and the three-axis IFR HeliSAS for single-pilot operations is priced at $211,375 (not including installation).