StandardAero has delivered what it says is “the industry’s first UH-1H helicopter tailboom modified to be the lightest with the most heavy-lift strength”, which should significantly improve the aircraft’s capabilities in hot and high conditions. The first modification was delivered to the launch customer, Pinal County Sheriff’s Office in Arizona, earlier this month.
To achieve this upgrade, several major modifications were incorporated during tailboom refurbishment and paint, including StandardAero’s 212 vertical fin, tail rotor and push-pull anti-torque control system; the company’s improved UH-1H tailboom longerons and tailboom skins for high torque and higher heat; BLR Aerospace’s FastFin system and dual tailboom strakes; and Trinity Aviation Services’ carbon-fibre driveshaft cover.
The upgrade modifications to the UH-1H tailboom and airframe provide a number of operational benefits, such as improved hover-hold tasks, yaw control and high density altitude capability; and reduced torque, tail rotor power requirements and fuel consumption.
Theresa Peoble, director of maintenance for Pinal County Sheriff’s Office, stated: “As a public sector customer, Pinal County Sheriff’s Office has been pleased with the professionalism, quality and patience from StandardAero. They have been there every step of the way from listening to our needs to providing an exceptional product on time and within the budget constraints. I look forward to our continued partnership.”
The modifications are being provided in phases, from now through to 2022. Additional airframe modifications are being developed that will increase cargo hook capacity and external gross weight limits.
The upgraded UH-1H tailboom and new 212 tail rotor and hub assemblies with 212 drive train components were completed at StandardAero’s helicopter airframe MRO facility. Additional airframe upgrades will be completed this September at the customer’s facility in Arizona.
Julien Roy, general manager of StandardAero’s Langley helicopter facility, commented: “At StandardAero, we are constantly innovating to support new and legacy utility helicopters and to assist helicopter operators in accomplishing their critical and unique flying missions both efficiently and safely, even in the harshest conditions.”
