A early warning power line detection system is to be installed and certified on Eurocopter AS355 helicopters.

Safe Flight Instrument Corporation's Powerline Detection System (PDS) will be marketed and distributed through Paris-based Trans Helicopter Service following certification.

Negotiations are under way with two major European insurance companies to obtain discounted aircraft insurance and with Eurocopter for the installation and support.

The PDS emits an auditory alert that increases in frequency as the helicopter nears a live

power line. A red warning light also illuminates on the cockpit indicator.

The system is currently being distributed in the United States, Scandinavia, South Africa, and Brazil.