Alpine Aerotech, a Canada-based leader in helicopter maintenance and product development, has officially received Transport Canada Civil Aviation and FAA supplemental type certificates (STC) for a convenient stowage compartment that can be installed to the aft of the centre pedestal in Bell 205, 212 and 412 medium helicopters.

The Alpine aft pedestal stowage compartment utilises dead space between the crew and aft facing seats, and provides contained space for items accessed by the pilot and co-pilot. It features internal and external dividers perfect for flight manuals, radios and other belongings. Compatible with both standard and modified height centre pedestals, it boasts 36.75 litres of stowage space and has a capacity of 15lbs. Once installed, it can be removed and re-installed in minutes via four screws.

"This product evolved directly from one of our customers' operational requirements," explains Taylor Wilson, manager of manufacturing. "They wanted a simple compartment where their flight manual could be secured, while providing additional space for other daily use items. I think this kit really fulfils the need."