Onboard Systems to design and develop cargo hook for Bell 429 program
Onboard Systems, a leading provider of innovative helicopter cargo hook equipment, announced that it has been awarded a contract to design and develop a new 1,361 KG (3,000 LB) external cargo hook system for the Bell 429 helicopter. The Bell 429 aircraft will be an advanced, light twin IFR helicopter that can be configured for a wide variety of uses, including corporate, law enforcement, EMS and utility operations.
"Bell is designing the 429 to be its most advanced helicopter, and they wanted it to have a cutting edge cargo hook system," said Jason Lemmon, President and General Manager of Onboard Systems. "That's why Bell was particularly interested in Onboard's hydraulic hook technology, which we developed specifically to provide greater load safety during external load operations. The new cargo hook system we are working on for the 429 will include a hydraulic hook, along with many other safety and operational improvements we've developed over the years."
Onboard is working with Bell's engineers to create a state-of-the-art cargo hook system specifically for the 429 aircraft. It will include Onboard's signature hydraulic and keeperless hook technologies and will be available for factory installation.
About Bell Helicopter
Bell Helicopter is an industry-leading producer of commercial and military, manned and unmanned vertical lift aircraft and the pioneer of the revolutionary tilt rotor aircraft. Globally recognized for world-class customer service, innovation and superior quality, Bell's global workforce serves customers flying Bell aircraft in more than 120 countries.
About Onboard Systems
Onboard Systems, Inc. designs and manufactures a complete line of innovative helicopter cargo hook equipment under its TALONTM brand, including belly hooks, cargo hook suspension systems, onboard weighing systems and remote hooks. Its low-weight, high quality products provide helicopter operators with increased cost efficiencies and safety through customer-driven designs, responsive service and support, and low on-going maintenance costs. Founded in 1975, Onboard Systems is a US corporation located in Vancouver, Washington, with an international sales office in the UK.
More from Defence Helicopter
-
US Navy orders support from Lockheed Martin for MH-60S Seahawk helicopter Block 3 upgrade
Lockheed Martin will add capabilities to bring Block 1 Seahawk helicopters to the Block 3 armed configuration.
-
Bell confident FARA ‘well postured’ to defeat new air defence threats
The US Army's decision to integrate new light scout helicopters with open systems architecture should be decisive in countering future threats, according to Bell.
-
Safran signs engine support contract for New Zealand NH90 fleet
Engine manufacturer Safran has signed a contract to support the engines of the Royal New Zealand Air Force fleet of eight NH90 helicopters, covering 21 RTM 322 turboshafts.
-
Farnborough 2022: Leonardo to end AW149 Italian production and focus on UK, Polish needs
Leonardo has outlined long-term AW149 helicopter production plans, which will see an end to production of the 8t aircraft at the manufacturer's Vergiate facility in Italy.
-
Farnborough 2022: Sikorsky reveals plan to develop new X2 helicopter for Europe
Sikorsky has opened up about an ambitious plan to develop a third X2 technology-based helicopter to meet European demand.