Cobham and DAC International Complete First Brazilian HeliSAS® Installation

Cobham Commercial Systems and DAC International have announced the first installation of a HeliSAS Autopilot and Stability Augmentation System in Brazil. Cobham, HeliSAS’ manufacturer, and DAC, HeliSAS’ South American sales representative, worked with Aristek Comércio Aeronautico, Sao Paulo, to install the system on a privately-owned Eurocopter AS350 B3 helicopter.

HeliSAS is lightweight, and designed specifically for light and medium rotorcraft. As a two-axis, attitude hold, attitude command flight control system it allows the pilot to perform cockpit functions hands-free and significantly reduces workload. HeliSAS also enhances flight stability, providing precise control during all modes of flight, regardless of wind conditions or aircraft center-of-gravity. HeliSAS has obtained Supplemental Type Certificates (STC) for the following aircraft: AS350 model series, EC130, Bell 206B, 206L, and 407.

“We are excited to have partnered with DAC International to bring this helicopter safety enhancement to Brazil,” said Roger Smith, Cobham Commercial Systems Mineral Wells general manager.

“Aviation in Brazil is growing rapidly and there are hundreds of Bell and Eurocopter aircraft eligible for similar installations,” said Luiz Eduardo Vianna, captain of the HeliSAS-installed aircraft. “I’m convinced HeliSAS will deliver safer, more stable flight. Air space in Brazil is becoming increasingly crowded, and flying with the HeliSAS system allows me to concentrate on situational awareness.”