Montreal, Quebec-headquartered mission-critical equipment provider Dart Aerospace has received an amendment to its FAA STC for the Model 311 GII Fire Attack System (FAS), to include installation on the Airbus H145 (MBB BK-117) D-2 and D-3 helicopter models as well as the previously approved C-2 model.
The Dart Aerospace Model 311 GII Fire Attack System, P/N 311-000001 specifications are:
- Capacity: 260 gallons (985 litres)
- System weight: 566 pounds (257kg)
- Foam capacity: 14 gallons (53 litres)
- Hover refill rate: 450 gpm (1703 lpm)
- VNE (hover pump installed): 125 KIAS
- VNE (hover pump removed): 125 KIAS
The Model 311 GII FAS is an aerial firefighting system designed to mount to the underside of the Airbus H145 (MBB-BK 117) C-2, D-2 and D-3 models. It features a foam system that can convert a payload of water into fire retardant foam (surfactant, Class A) as needed during a mission, two hydraulically actuated drop doors and a hover refill system that allows the crew to refill the water tank while hovering over an open water source. The FAS is certified for day/night VFR and can be installed and removed in less than 30 minutes.
VP sales and marketing Ryan Williamson says: “Dart is excited to obtain expanded FAA certification for the Model 311 GII. This is a direct response to strong customer demand for the Airbus H145 D‑3 rotorcraft.” According to his statement, obtaining this certification is evidence of Dart's commitment to producing the most advanced certified mission equipment on the market to meet evolving aerial firefighting mission requirements.
Dart Aerospace Fire Attack Systems are widely operated as essential equipment for aerial firefighting missions across the globe. These systems are relied upon by government firefighting agencies, private operators and OEMs for their exceptional safety, efficiency, reliability and durability.