The U.S. Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has certified the FT5000 fire tank for the Sikorsky S-92A helicopter, as reported by Milestone Aviation Group Limited.
This certification grants a Supplemental Type Certificate to the new firefighting platform, combining the Sikorsky S-92A with Helitak’s lightweight, carbon fiber FT5000 system.
The tank, which has a 5,000-liter capacity, is retractable and belly-mounted.
The first S-92A helicopter equipped with the FT5000 fire tank was recently delivered to VIH Aviation Group, a Canadian helicopter operator.
This helicopter will soon be deployed on firefighting missions across Western Canada.
Milestone and Helitak have worked together to develop this new firefighting solution.
Pat Sheedy, President & CEO of Milestone, said: “We are delighted to earn certification for this unique fire tank and introduce a new mission to the S-92A as a next-generation, multi-purpose firefighting platform.”
Jason Schellaars, Founder & CEO of Helitak, commented on the challenges and successes of the project: “The S-92A presented some unique design challenges for the Helitak team, but after working with our project partner, Milestone, we believe we have delivered a world-class firefighting solution.”
VIH Aviation Group is the launch customer for the new system.
Jen Norie, Chief Operating Officer of VIH, expressed enthusiasm for the new capability: “We are very pleased to introduce the first utility configured Sikorsky S-92A helicopter into the Canadian commercial market with the launch phase specifically intended to support government agencies in wildfire suppression.”
The new system aims to enhance VIH’s ability to fight wildfires by leveraging the dependability and advanced capabilities of the S-92A, combined with the Helitak FT5000 tank.
The FT5000 tank can be installed or removed from the S-92A in minutes.
It is equipped with a hover pump that can fill the tank in 48 seconds.
The S-92A’s advanced avionics and dynamic cabin layout allow it to transport crews of up to 19 firefighters directly to the front lines of wildfire events.
The system’s design and operational efficiency make it a versatile asset for firefighting missions, supporting quick response and effective fire suppression efforts.
The U.S. Federal Aviation Administration has certified the FT5000 fire tank for the Sikorsky S-92A helicopter, developed by Milestone Aviation and Helitak Firefighting Equipment.
This certification introduces a new firefighting capability for the S-92A, featuring a retractable 5,000-liter tank.
The first helicopter with this system has been delivered to VIH Aviation Group and will be used in firefighting missions in Western Canada.
The FT5000 tank is designed for quick installation and removal, enhancing the S-92A’s versatility in wildfire suppression.
