US-based BLR Aerospace has received FAA approval of its H125 FastFin system incorporating the H125 Arriel 2D engine power upgrade certified by Airbus Helicopter in October 2021. The increase in directional control that BLR's FastFin system provides, combined with the additional engine power now available, results in useful load increases up to 485 lbs, while the OGE hover ceiling at MTOW is higher by 2,750 ft (up to 13,900 ft versus 11,150 ft previously).

EASA certification is in the pipeline, along with certifications and validations from several other civil aviation authorities around the world.

“Once again Airbus Helicopters has increased the capability of one of its helicopter platforms. We're grateful that we've been able to collaborate with Airbus on this exciting upgrade making an already great helicopter even better,” says president Mike Carpenter.

BLR's FastFin tail rotor enhancement and stability system has been developed for all models of AS350, and certified performance is available for the B1, B2, B3 and H125/B3e. It is compatible with Transport Canada STC SH96-31 battery modifications.

The FastFin uses advanced airflow management to increase the effectiveness of the H125 anti-torque system for significant increases to hover load and stability. The FastFin is comprised of an advanced tailboom aerodynamic cowling, a tailboom strake and vortex generators.