This website uses cookies
More information
The monthly news publication for aviation professionals.

Why visit ACE ’25?

Related background information from the Handbook...
The monthly news publication for aviation professionals.

Request your printed copy

True Blue Power battery approved on H125s and AS350s
The TSO (and TCCA) certified TB17 lithium-ion battery provides significant operational and performance advantages to Airbus H125/AS350 owners and operators including reduced weight and increased useful load.
The TB17 brings a whole host of benefits to the H125 and AS350 platforms. Photo courtesy of Mel Romero.

Vertical Flight Solutions (VFS) by EuroTec in Eudora, Kansas, has received TCCA approval for the installation of the ultra lightweight True Blue Power TB17 lithium-ion main ship battery on Airbus H125/AS350 series helicopters. The battery integration requires no structural work and includes an NVIS-compatible cockpit annunciator. Additional approvals, including FAA and EASA, are expected to follow.

“Lithium-ion technology is the next generation of aircraft batteries,” says Adam Boyko, avionics manager for EuroTec. “As aircraft technology and avionics advance, we are pleased to offer a main ship battery solution that follows suit. The popular Airbus H125/AS350 helicopter was the next logical step to integrate with our proven design.”

The TSO-certified TB17 lithium-ion battery provides significant operational and performance advantages to Airbus H125/AS350 owners and operators including reduced weight and increased useful load: 52% lighter than nickel-cadmium (NiCad) alternatives and 62% lighter than lead-acid alternatives; faster, cooler engine starts: Higher nominal output voltage results in more reliable and efficient turbine starts; significantly reduced maintenance and operational costs: eight-year (average) useful battery life, simplified, two-year maintenance intervals and reduced replacement intervals; superior high temperature and cold weather performance; and intelligent battery status communication to the cockpit

“EuroTec customers value our batteries ease of installation, proven safety, state-of-the-art monitoring system and their ability to eliminate cold weather problems,” adds Erik Ritzman, director of True Blue Power. “EuroTec continues to build a growing list of True Blue Power battery upgrade STC kits. In addition to the Airbus H125/AS350 and H130/EC130, STCs for the Airbus H135, Leonardo 109 and Bell 407 series helicopters are in development.”

Other News
 
SPAES and Østnes upgrade H125 fleet
February 9, 2025
Modifications include enhanced communications, improved pilot visibility and upgraded transponders for nine Airbus H125 helicopters.
Boost gains EASA certification for personnel carrying device
January 24, 2025
A collaborative effort with AirWork & Heliseilerei has resulted in a certification for advanced helicopter rescue operations with the Airbus H125 and AS355.
Sikorsky authorises Korea's Sharp Technics K
January 24, 2025
Sharp Technics K will facilitate faster maintenance turnaround times and local parts supply for S-92 operators in the Republic of Korea and beyond who are dedicated to SAR, firefighting and head of state transportation.