StandardAero recently received EASA certification for its retrofittable crash-resistant fuel tank (CRFT) system for the Airbus Helicopters AS350 and EC130 series. Developed with Robertson Fuel Systems, the CRFT previously received FAA certification in December 2017.

“We are extremely pleased to have received EASA certification following FAA certification in December,” said Rick Stine, president of StandardAero components, helicopters, and accessories. “It evidences that our industry as a whole is keenly focused on making safety enhancements a reality, and StandardAero is proud to not only be at the forefront of this critical initiative but also to now be able to deliver this life-saving equipment to European operators as well.”

The CRFT was created to replace legacy AS350 models such as the AS350D, AS350B/B1/B2/BA/B3 and AS350 B3e (H125), and the EC130 B4. StandardAero provides installation and technical support for the kit, which is field replaceable. With a slightly greater capacity than the legacy fuel cell, the CRFT features magnetic field sensors fuel gauging technology, a recessed sump drain valve, quick-change cartridge fuel pump design and vent system roll-over protection. Additionally, the CRFT complies with the FAR Part 27.952 fuel system crash-resistance requirements and is compatible with the manufacturer’s cargo swing and other cargo swing solutions.

Since the CRFT FAA approval, StandardAero has delivered 40 kits to customers such as Air Methods and WeatherTech Aviation, who also served as its launch customers. Both StandardAero and Robertson Fuel Systems recognized Air Methods at Heli-Expo in Las Vegas earlier this year during an event celebrating the 11 CRFT retrofits that had taken place at that time.