Workhorse Helo Equipped With Sagem ICDS

Vector Aerospace Helicopter Services-North America announced this week the company has successfully test-flown the world’s first Sikorsky S-61 equipped with an Integrated Cockpit Display System (ICDS) from Sagem Avionics.

The historic first test flight of the Carson Helicopter’s S-61 took place on May 20 at the company’s Langley, British Columbia avionics facility, and will be supported by a comprehensive flight test and certification program conducted from Langley Airport over the next several weeks.

"With more than a full year of dedication and hard work from our Langley team, the Carson-bladed S-61 has made aviation history; transforming many of the dated S-61 systems into a multi-mission capable state-of-the art helicopter," said Elvis Moniz, Director of Operations for Vector-Langley and project lead for the S-61 glass cockpit project. "As our customers often attest, the quality of workmanship, dedication and innovation displayed by our entire team is second to none, and the success of this project is a clear indication that we are at the pinnacle of our industry."

Installation of an upgraded digital fuel-indicating system as well as a Sagem Caution Advisory System eliminate supportability issues with old systems The avionics suite consists of Dual Garmin GNS 530 GPS systems, Dual Rockwell Collins AHC3000 AHRS, Garmin Real Time weather system, Skytrack Satellite tracking system, Rockwell Collins Mode S transponder and utility system provisions including a cargo hook load cell that displays on the ICDS 10.

In addition to the challenging feat of engineering and adapting a glass cockpit configuration for the Carson S-61, Moniz’s team included a comprehensive 9000-hour overhaul with a complete paint strip (both interior and exterior). Every length of wiring was replaced using the latest wiring and connector technologies, and key airframe wiring areas have been modularized for ease of maintenance.

Many other Carson and Vector Aerospace modifications round out the total aircraft refurbishment; performed entirely at Vector Helicopter Services-Langley.

FMI: www.vectoraerospace.com, www.carsonhelicopters.com