Gulf Helicopters Company (GHC) has selected SkyTrac real-time connectivity for its Leonardo AW139 and AW189 HUMS and flight data monitoring (FDM) programmes.

“HUMS and FDM are vital safety programmes that can help catch, communicate and resolve emerging safety issues before they escalate,” says GHC CEO Mohamed Al Mohannadi. “The SkyTrac real-time connectivity solution will allow us to identify issues as they are detected even while the aircraft is still in flight. It will also streamline our processes so we can conduct in-depth investigations as efficiently as possible. Implementing this solution demonstrates our commitment to leading the way in safety innovation and to providing best-in-class service to our clients.”

SkyTrac's connectivity solution uses a lightweight hardware package combined with OEM analytics to monitor for safety or maintenance anomalies in flight. When an issue is detected, detailed information is forwarded automatically to the ground. Full flight logs including multiple hours of data are also made available post flight.

“Our real-time connectivity is about delivering the best quality flight data to the right people on the ground as quickly and efficiently as possible,” comments SkyTrac VP of sales Jan van der Heul. “The result is a tool to assist with improved scheduling, improved turnaround and greater safety oversight.”

The system is currently being deployed on the first Gulf AW139 as part of an agreement to roll out the programme across its fleet of 19 AW139 and five AW189 aircraft.