Boost Human External Cargo Systems, a provider of certified and compliant human external cargo (HEC) systems, personnel device carrying systems (PCDS) and HEC training services based in Vancouver, Canada, has received FAA STC for its MD500 series helicopter HEC system. The system is compliant to FAR 27.865 and FAA AC133-1B HEC standards.

“Receipt of this STC has been eagerly awaited by a number of key operators in the North American HEC industry, and we are excited to inform operators that with the STC now in-hand, we are ready to begin accepting orders immediately, while offering a quick turn-time on deliveries,” advises Dave McGrath, senior director of business development and sales.

Enhanced features include: a removable HEC hook with 900 lb working load limit; a removable HEC hook that enables operational flexibility by reducing overall fleet purchase costs, reducing the risk of connecting to the wrong hook during non-HEC operations; a compact hydraulic collective-mounted primary quick release system with dual activation device; an electric back-up quick release system with dual activation device (multiple mounting options); hook spacing avoids hook contact and risk of inadvertent release in flight; a HEC hook ‘stopper plug’ for installation when not performing HEC operations, also reducing risk of connecting to the wrong hook exceeding the HEC load limit; and an integrated hook stopper to prevent fuel tank penetration in the event of a hard landing.

McGrath explains that Boost's MD500 HEC system, designed with enhanced operational safety, reliability and durability in mind, offers a more effective product. “When packaged with our optional FAA-approved personnel device carrying systems, which offer a life of 10 years/500,000 cycles, we believe our MD500 HEC product provides operators with the greatest financial and operational benefits available to the marketplace,” he adds.

Boost Systems offers HEC systems for the AS350, AS355, H125, H135, H145, Bell 206L, Bell 407 and MD500 helicopters. All systems are fully certified and compliant to the latest FAR 27.865 and FAA AC133-1B HEC standards (including optional approved PCDS) and provide the highest level of safety and versatility available to the industry.

Additional helicopter HEC systems under development by Boost that will available in 2020 include the Bell 212 and Bell 412, and Airbus H135/145/BK-117 helicopters.