Onboard System's EC130 Swing Suspension System Receives FAA Certification

Saturday, February 2, 2008

Onboard Systems, a leading provider of innovative helicopter cargo hook equipment, announced that its new cargo hook suspension system for the Eurocopter EC130 aircraft has been certified by the FAA. Onboard will also submit this system to Transport Canada and EASA for certification in Canada and Europe, respectively. The newly certified suspension system will be on display at the HELI-EXPO 2008 convention on February 24-26th.

“EC130 operators who are interested in adding external lifting capabilities to their aircraft will be very excited about our new cargo hook kit,” said Jason Lemmon, President and General Manager of Onboard Systems. “In addition to containing all the latest safety enhancements—including a gimbal frame, a protective bumper ring and a hydraulic cargo hook—the kit also includes a reliable Onboard Weighing System.”

Onboard’s innovative hydraulic hooks are designed to minimize the risk of inadvertent cargo releases caused by excessive movement during external load operations, which can activate an improperly rigged manual release cable on a cargo hook system. Hydraulic hook systems allow for simplified cable routing along the belly of the aircraft, and snagging or damage to the cable will not lead to accidentally dropping the cargo.

In addition to the hydraulic hook, the new EC130 suspension system features a unique gimbal frame that distributes weight between the four cables more effectively than a rigid frame to ensure balanced load sharing throughout the aircraft. The bumper ring and built-in travel limits to protect the hook and control cables from damage, and the integrated weighing system improves safety, increases productivity and decreases repairs due to overstress and overload.

Onboard Systems, Inc. designs and manufactures a complete line of innovative helicopter cargo hook equipment under its TALON™ brand, including belly hooks, cargo hook suspension systems, Onboard Weighing Systems and remote hooks. Its low-weight, high-quality products provide helicopter operators with increased cost efficiencies and safety through customer-driven designs, responsive service and support, and low on-going maintenance costs. Founded in 1975, Onboard Systems is a US corporation located Vancouver, Washington, with an international sales office in the UK.

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Contact: Sheri Gormley, 360-546-3072