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Salus HEC dual hook earns Transport Canada STC approval

Salus Aviation has developed a multi-purpose dual hook for use on the BK117 helicopter and the system has now been approved by Transport Canada. 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 Salus 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,” says Wayne Christie, Executive General Manager Aircraft Sales & Leasing, Salus Aviation.

Salus Aviation explains the dual cargo hook system provides operational ease and versatility; noting the removable dual hook and beam assembly can be installed and removed in minutes without tooling. The approved STC offers multi-purpose HEC and non-HEC capability with no reconfiguration required.

The dual hook system comes with improved 1,400 kg Primary cargo hook capability (increased from 1,200 kg OEM standard) and 500 kg Secondary HEC hook. Salus Aviation explains this provides an operator with 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.

This system, continues Salus Aviation, will allow operators to more efficiently conduct operations like EMS, firefighting, utility, powerline, SAR and personnel transfer capabilities.