Onboard Systems International has debuted an advanced prototype of its Talon HEC dual cargo hook kit for the Bell 429 at the 2023 HAI Heli-Expo show. The new Bell 429 kit will provide an STC-certified solution for a variety of CFR Part 133 external load missions, including HEC, high-value cargo transport, utility line work, short haul, and search and rescue. With the Y-rope attached to both cargo hooks, the dual cargo hook system load limit is 1,322 lbs (600 kg) for HEC missions.

The new Bell 429 human external cargo (HEC) hook system is in the final development stages, and launch customer Sacramento, California-based Capitol Helicopters is providing fit-check and flight test assistance for the kit's STC certification. Capitol director of operations Casey Ross says: "Onboard's cargo hook systems are extremely reliable and easy to operate and maintain. This, coupled with Onboard's customer service and support, provides a much-needed resource for our operation and we look forward to being able to add the new Onboard dual hook system to each of the Bell 429s in our fleet."

"Onboard is dedicated to providing the safest, most reliable external load mission equipment, along with industry-leading customer support and lead times," adds vice president of sales and marketing Mike Fox. "We will continue to develop and certify HEC systems for additional aircraft in the near future in order to meet the challenging mission demands of our customers."

Onboard's Bell 429 HEC dual cargo hook kit is comprised of a complete system of fixed provisions, controls and dual Talon LC hydraulic cargo hooks mounted to a lightweight frame. The kit can be installed on an aircraft with no prior cargo hook installation and is also compatible with Bell dual hook factory fixed provisions. The Onboard Systems kit offers improved ground clearance and enhanced safety features such as keeper-less hooks that eliminate dynamic rollout, a high-reliability hydraulic backup release system and an optional Onboard weighing system.