Carson Helicopters, Inc. is pleased to announce that it has received EASA approval for installing the Goodrich Hoist (44311-10-2) on all long and short-body Sikorsky S61N Helicopters. The FAA granted an STC to Carson for the same installation in February 2008 but after numerous requests from European operators, Carson decided to pursue EASA Approval. This approval will enable European operators to replace the older hydraulic hoist with the new electrically-operated version. The benefits of using the electrically-operated hoist include a lifting capacity of 550 pounds (approximately 250 kilos), a faster and more efficient operation of the 290 feet (88.39 meters) usable cable, and a maximum lifting speed of 325 feet (99 meters) per minute. Additionally, parts are in production and readily available, eliminating the burden of trying to find obsolete parts to keep the older model in service. The total install weight of the Goodrich Model 44311-10-2 Electrically-operated hoist is 132 pounds. (59.7 kilos) with an operating temperature of -40 to 140⁰ F (-40 to +60⁰ C). This is the same hoist used by the Sikorsky S92 and is available for immediate delivery.
The Rescue Hoist is critical in saving lives when there is no place to land. Its history goes back to November 29, 1945 when a Sikorsky R-5 piloted by Igor Sikorsky’s young nephew, Jimmy (Dmitry) Viner rescued two men stranded on an oil barge in the Long Island Sound during a turbulent storm. Although helicopters had been used previously for rescue operations, the pilot always had to find a place to land in order to fulfill the mission. This was the first time that a helicopter would try to lower a hoist to try and save lives because it was impossible to land. Luckily for the two men stranded on the barge, the operation was successful, and the hoist became a critical component in saving lives under perilous conditions. In the words of the great Igor Sikorsky:
“If a man is in need of rescue, an airplane can come In and throw flowers on him, and that’s just about all. But a direct lift aircraft could come in and save his life.”
Carson is pleased to offer immediate delivery of the Goodrich Model 44311-10-2 Electrically-operated Hoist. If you have any questions or need additional information, including pricing, please contact Rod Manogue at [email protected].
Please visit our website at CarsonHelicopters.com to review all our STC’s.