Airwork (NZ) Ltd has developed a multi-purpose dual hook for use on the BK117 helicopter and is pleased to announce this system has been approved by CAANZ. This dual hook system meets 29.865 requirements and is capable of Class B and D Human External Cargo (HEC) load combinations per FAA AC133-1B. FAA Certification Pending 2023.
“The Airwork BK117-850D2 aircraft equipped with the dual hook provides Human External Cargo (HEC) operators with the most cost-effective solution in regard to achieving Cat A/PC 1 safety performance,” said Wayne Christie, Airwork’s director of sales and leasing.
The dual cargo hook system provides operational ease and versatility, the removable dual hook and beam assembly can be installed and removed in minutes without tooling. The approved NZ CAA STC offers multi-purpose HEC and Non-HEC capability with no reconfiguration required.
The dual hook system comes with a 1,400kg (3086.5 pounds) primary cargo hook and 500kg (1102 pounds) secondary HEC hook, giving the operator the versatility of using the system for human cargo or standard external load cargo without changing configurations. The hooks remain clear of the ground when the aircraft lands thereby reducing wear and unintended snagging (compared to underslung systems which could drag on the ground until stowed).
This system will allow operators to safely and efficiently conduct operations including EMS, firefighting, utility, powerline, SAR and personnel transfer capabilities.
Airwork (NZ) Ltd is part of the Airwork Group of Companies which is a diversified aviation business operating in multiple countries providing maintenance support, dynamic component overhaul, turbine support, design and manufacture. Airwork is an authorized Service Centre for Kawasaki, Airbus Helicopters, Honeywell and Breeze Eastern. Airwork also proudly owns the Soloy AS350 SD1 & SD2 STC’s and carries global certification for FAA145, EASA145, NZCAA145 (TC accepted), South African 145 and CASA PNG1.
This press release was prepared and distributed by Airwork (NZ).
