Blue Hawaiian Helicopters (BHH) is partnering with Spidertracks as the official launch customer for Spider X.

The announcement of Spider X was made at Heli-Expo 2020 in Anaheim, California in January, promising a new horizon of data insights, connectivity, safety and efficiency for the general aviation industry.

Building on the functionality of its predecessors, Spider X provides more capability and insights with the introduction of AHRS data, enabling the most precise picture yet of an aircraft's flight path and movements. It is said to be packed with forward-thinking tech such as wi-fi, cellular, Bluetooth, USB-C and serial port interface capability, providing the ideal development and integration platform. All updates and downloads are over the air, so there is need to connect to a computer or for SD cards.

“The seamless integration into our aircraft and invaluable insights provided by the Spider X makes this collaboration a natural fit. It also reflects our continued commitment to quality and excellence and enables us to focus on our core business,” states Justin Brooke, director of operations for BHH sister company Hawaii Helicopters.

BHH says it has been the leading helicopter tour company in Hawaii since 1985, and serves the four major Hawaiian islands Oahu, Maui, Kauai and the Big Island.

BHH has an approved and accepted voluntary FAA SMS and is a member of multiple safety programmes, including Tour Operators Program of Safety, the Platinum Program of Safety, as well as being Department of Defense and OAS certified.

Its fleet features Eco-Star helicopters, and is one of the largest in Hawaii. It also incorporates the latest in technologies, materials, systems, safety features and avionics to offer an exceptional service for its customers.

Spidertracks CEO Dave Blackwell explains: “With its more than 35 years of experience in the industry and recognition by safety authorities and customers alike, there was no question in selecting Blue Hawaiian Helicopters as our official launch partner for the Spider X.

“We’re carving out a unique opportunity for digital transformation within a traditionally analogue industry, and are looking to redefine the way data is accessed and received from an aircraft, delivering more usable insights and helping solve problems the industry faces. Our mission is simple; to help make the aviation community a safer place to live and operate in.”