Dart Aerospace has received an updated FAA supplemental type certificate (STC) for its cable cutter system, adding approval for installation on Airbus H145 BK117D3 helicopters.

The certification expands the company’s existing coverage for the Airbus H145 / EC145 T2 and BK117D2 platforms, extending the availability of Dart’s wire strike protection systems across more variants of the H145 family.

The cable cutter kit is designed to reduce the risks associated with wire strike events by cutting cables before they can cause catastrophic damage to the aircraft. The system aims to prevent wires entering the cockpit and reduce the likelihood of flight control damage, helping crews maintain aircraft integrity and control.

Dart’s system includes upper and lower cutters fitted with high-strength blades. The company says the design has been tested to cut through cables with tensile strengths of up to 14,000lbs.

The latest approval forms part of Dart Aerospace’s wider effort to expand its range of helicopter safety equipment and mission-critical aftermarket systems.