Fully Integrated Ice Protection System Allows FIKI Helicopter Operation

A rotorblade ice protection system for the AgustaWestland AW139 medium twin-engine helicopter developed by Goodrich has received certification from the FAA, EASA, and Transport Canada Civil Aviation (TCAA). The rotorblade ice protection system is part of the AW139's full ice protection system that provides its all-weather capability, making it the first helicopter in its category certified for flight into known icing conditions (FIKI).

File Photo

Goodrich says the rotorblade ice protection system (RIPS) was designed and integrated as an ice protection solution for the AW139 platform resulting in a robust, highly reliable, and fully automated ice protection system. RIPS uses Goodrich's unique DuraTherm electrothermal mats which can tolerate considerable damage, including punctures, and continue to provide ice protection. With expertise in ice detection, power distribution and DuraTherm de-icing technologies, Goodrich says it is the only systems supplier able to offer an all-inclusive ice detection and ice protection system.

"The recent certifications of our rotorblade ice protection system on the AW139 confirms Goodrich's ability to partner with customers to provide both the avionics and advanced heating technology in a single-source ice protection solution for helicopters," said Steve Guetter, rotorcraft business development director for Goodrich Sensors and Integrated Systems.

"The development of a completely integrated civil certified ice protection system was a 'first time' both for AgustaWestland and Goodrich," added Enrico Bellussi, ice protection system design team manager for AgustaWestland, "and the key factor for the success of this venture was the pro-active, collaborative and problem-solving attitude adopted by the whole team. Continuous support and side-by-side work enabled the development of a complex system that impacted the whole helicopter both in installation and in overall performance."

Goodrich says its ice detection and ice protection products are used extensively on many helicopter platforms including the Bell-Boeing V-22, Boeing Apache AH-64, NHIndustries NH90, new Korean Aerospace Industries Surion utility helicopter, and the Sikorsky Black Hawk, CH-/MH-53, S-76 and S-92.

FMI: www.goodrich.com