Vertical Flight Solutions (VFS) by EuroTec has received FAA and Transport Canada approval for the True Blue Power TB20 lithium-ion battery kit in H125/AS350 helicopters. The 20 amp-hour True Blue Power lithium-ion battery presents several remarkable features including on-condition maintenance, an increase in useful payload of up to 21.5 pounds and a higher amp-to-pound ratio compared to any other battery.

The TB20 battery kit delivers exceptional performance, incorporating key attributes such as superior high temperature and cold weather performance, the latest indication, increased power during start sequences and elevated nominal output voltage. These features help reduce wear and tear and ensure reliable turbine engine starts, enhancing overall condition and operational efficiency.

"Today marks an important milestone for VFS," says president Chad Decker. "The recent FAA certification of our design is a testament to our unwavering commitment to bring next generation lithium battery technology to the industry's leading single engine helicopters. Since our inception in 2019, VFS has obtained regulatory approval to install TB17, TB20 and TB30 batteries in H130 and H125 helicopters, showcasing our reliability as an airframe integrator for True Blue lithium-ion batteries. We are currently developing other applications, including the installation of next gen TB30 and TB40 batteries for the EC135."

The TB20 battery eliminates the need for costly scheduled battery maintenance; with an average life expectancy of eight to ten years, it provides substantial long term savings for owners and operators. Its superior performance in high temperature and cold weather conditions ensures optimal safety and reliability, regardless of environmental factors. Designed with ease of installation in mind, the lithium-ion battery system boasts an installer-friendly design that does not require any structural airframe modifications. Furthermore, its lightweight composition and built-in health monitoring capabilities outperform traditional lead-acid and ni-cad batteries.

To provide essential data to pilots, VFS offers the optional MD23-104 Flex digital battery ACU from Mid-Continent Instruments and Avionics. The Flex ACU features smooth, high-resolution graphics and provides status, state of charge, state of health, volts, amps, temperature, remaining life and fault data. The certified, multi-function ACU is available with local time and flight timer modes and can replace an existing clock in the aircraft panel to save space during installation.