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August 13, 2020

Aerovironment Upgrades Puma Capabilities

New Smart 2500 Battery And Bungee Launch System Added To The Program

AeroVironment has launched two new Puma product line enhancement options that reinforce the company’s commitment to continuous improvement and expanding the operational capabilities of its family of tactical UAS. The new Puma Smart 2500 Battery is available for the Puma LE. The optional Puma Smart 2500 Battery allows operators to achieve an extended flight time of up to 6.5 hours. The increased endurance provides operators with greater time on station, maximizing Puma LE’s multi-mission capabilities across land and maritime environments.

EVERYBODY's Going Virtual These days

FAA to Host Virtual International Rotorcraft Safety Conference Registration is now open for the Federal Aviation Administration’s first virtual International Rotorcraft Safety Conference, which will take place Oct. 27 through Oct 29 to explore ways to reduce the national and international helicopter accident rate. Leaders from the FAA's Aircraft Certification and Flight Standards Services will open the conference, followed by programs for the entire helicopter community.

Engine And Rotor RPM Suddenly Decreased, The Helicopter Yawed To The Left And Started To Settle

On July 21, 2020, at 0558 Pacific daylight time, a McDonnell Douglas 600N helicopter, N208MP, was substantially damaged when it was involved in an accident near Thompson Falls, Montana. The pilot was not injured. The helicopter was operated as a Title 14 Code of Federal Regulations Part 133 rotorcraft external load operation. The pilot stated that, as he was on an approach to a landing zone, he lowered the collective to start a vertical descent to land. At that time, the engine and rotor rpm suddenly decreased, the helicopter yawed to the left and started to settle.