Heli-Cap’ Air has released its ‘Shortline’ onto the market, in an attempt to replace the traditional helicopter cargo hook system. “Carrying human loads and cargo is a very sensitive issue and has been prohibited over the years due to safety reasons. We have now developed a system whereby within one unit we have two hooks. Each is individually releasable and with people not relying on just one hook, the safety problem is eliminated,” said Captain Uwe Heins, head of the project.

The product has been available to buy since April as in the final round of certification from the Berufs-Genossenschaft safety association. Heins believes it will appeal to foresters, telephone and electrical line fitters and rescue services. “This would have been useful with respect to September 11, in bringing the first response people down through the smoke. Within five minutes we’re ready to winch up 200 metres and depending on the helicopter type you can carry six to twelve people,” he said.

Heins explained how this improved on the traditional rescue lines: “You don’t need a hoist, which needs more time to lower down and regular cooling. This can even take people down shafts and canyons.”\r

Other companies involved with the project were ClimbSafe (aiding in rope safety and height rescue training) and the Private Forest Service (guiding in ground operations).