AerialFire Magazine - Spring 2016

agairupdate.com SPRING 2016

AT-802F Simulator

Rebuilding the fleet

Aerial firefighting’s tool box

&

keep turning… in this issue VOLUME 34 NUMBER 3| MARCH 2016

A E R I A L

F I R E F I G H T I N G ’ S

N E W S P A P E R

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F I R E F I G H T I N G ’ S

N E W S P A P E R

AFF-07 From the SEAT AFF-08 Avialsa has only FTD Level II certified AT-802F

simulator in the world

AFF-10 AFF-11 AFF-13 AFF-14

FlightSafety Int’l and Aeroglobo initiate a new era in training

AFF-15 AFF-16 AFF-18 AFF-20 AFF-22

Senator John McCain to address aerial firefighting leaders Aerial Firefighting Int’l 2016 conference agenda Simplex Aerospace celebrates 70 years of aviation mission equipment innovation Aircraft Structural Inspection providing NDT inspections Trotter Controls adds DataVault to its firefighting product line Avialsa celebrates its 50th anniversary Rebuilding the fleet Aerial firefighting’s tool box

On the cover and on this page -Avialsa introduces the first Level II AT-802F Air Tractor simulator. See story page AFF-08.

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March 2016

A-5

AT-802F Initial Attack Firefighter

EARLY BIRD

Because small fires can grow into big ones.

Get on a fire quickly; knock it down before heavies are needed. That’s why the Air Tractor AT-802F is the world’s go-to aerial firefighter. For initial or extended attack, no other aerial asset delivers the speed, maneuverability, performance and operational economy like an 802F. It’s the early bird that gets the call.

AIR TRACTOR GLOBAL DEALER NETWORK ABIDE AG-AERO CORP. (Parts Only) (662) 378-2282 AGSUR AVIONES, S.A. (Central & South America) +54 (247) 743-2090 sales@agsuraviones.com

AG AVIATION AFRICA (Sub-Saharan Africa) +27-824-515-388 sales@agaviationafrica.com

FIELD AIR (SALES) PTY. LTD. (Australasia) +61-353-394-222 sales@fieldair.com.au

AIR TRACTOR EUROPE (Europe & North Africa) +34-96-265-41-00 v.huerta@avialsa.com

FROST FLYING, INC. (U.S. + Central & South America) (870) 295-6213 garrett@frostflying.com

CONAIR GROUP INC. (802F in Canada) (604) 855-1171 jberry@conair.ca

LANE AVIATION (U.S. + Mexico, Central & South America) (281) 342-5451 / (888) 995-5263 glane@laneav.com

FARM AIR, INC. (877) 715-8476 farmair@mymctc.net

NEAL AIRCRAFT, INC. (806) 828-5892 neal.aircraft@gmail.com QUEEN BEE AIR SPECIALTIES (U.S. + Canada) (208) 745-7654 / (800) 736-7654 chipkemper@aol.com SOUTHEASTERN AIRCRAFT (772) 461-8924 / (800) 441-2964 mail@southeasternaircraft.com VALLEY AIR CRAFTS (559) 686-7401 sales@thevalleyaircrafts.com

AIR TRACTOR, INC. • OLNEY, TEXAS 76374 • 940.564.5616 • AIRTRACTOR.COM

AFF-6

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F I R E F I G H T I N G ’ S

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Marc Mullis marc@agairupdate.com

from the SEAT

Training for success The final statistics for the 2015 fire season are in and show that the year was the largest since record keeping began in regards to total acres burned. The number of large fires was actually below the ten-year average and this reflects an increase in the number of mega-fires or ones that exceed 100,000 acres. Of the ten-million plus acres scorched last year more than half were in Alaska. Megafires there were the norm and many of them are not suppressed but simply monitored because of their remoteness and the scarcity of structures or property. Alaska is forecast to have another big fire season brought on by limited winter moisture.

A company called Global Supertanker has resurrected the Boeing 747 air tanker. They have purchased intellectual property and equipment from Evergreen International whose attempt to market the 747 air tanker failed with bankruptcy. Global Supertanker is utilizing a later model airframe and as of this writing the tanks have been installed and flight testing is underway in California. The failure of Evergreen was partially because at the time the idea of a Very Large Air Tanker (VLAT) had not been accepted by the wildland fire community. Since then, Tanker 10 with their Douglas DC-10 VLATs have more than validated the idea. With a retardant capacity of 20,000 gallons,

the Supertanker will dwarf the DC10’s 11,400-gallon capacity. I wish the company the best and cannot wait to see the beast in action.

I recently attended a training program where the subject of the ever popular energy drinks was discussed. Evidently, the boost they supply to the body have just the opposite effect on your brain.

The high they give is followed by a crash that leaves the user worse off than before they drank the product. The U.S. Navy has forbidden their aviators from consuming these drinks anytime on duty or off. If a Naval Aviator is caught drinking one, flight privileges are suspended immediately. Some airlines have followed suit by discouraging flight crews from drinking these products.

If you need a pick me up from fatigue have a cup of coffee. It is much safer for the body.

My company just completed an inspection by the Office of Aircraft Services (OAS). The inspection was held in conjunction with our annual in-house pilot training program and involved four inspectors. Because of weather concerns, we completed the flight check portion of the program first. It consisted of the pilot making two water drops with the first being a split load and the second being an emergency jettison. We were graded on many points

including communications, accuracy, altitude control and coordination. The pilots also demonstrated their ability to program a radio and a GPS in a limited amount of time. The flight check was followed by a debriefing and an oral discussion on contract issues. Under a new rule, all Level I pilots will now have to complete this test every thirty-six months. A lot of good information was exchanged and overall I thought it was a very good program.

The 2016 fire season is just around the corner and in fact it has already begun in several places, such as Texas. Many of the training programs have been completed and soon it will be time to go to work. I hope you all have a safe and prosperous season and maybe I will see you in the mountains one day.

Marc

Spring 2016

AFF-7

Avialsa has only FTD Level II certified AT-802F simulator in the world Valencian aeronautical company, Avialsa T-35, has installed a unique FTD Level II Air Tractor AT-802F simulator for land and amphibious operations. The A12 type simulator was developed by Entrol and is based at the new Avialsa facilities in Paterna (Valencia) Spain.

Avialsa, with its 50-year history, has always believed it is necessary to invest in safety and quality training. This has been accomplished with Entrol introducing into this simulator elements for operational trainings such as SAR (Search and Rescue) and firefighting scenarios.

Avialsa, through its sister company Air Tractor Europe, is the Air Tractor AT-802 distributor for Europe, North Africa and the Middle East offering one of the largest single engine turboprops in production with a mission to carry 800-gallon (3,000-liter) loads of water or retardant to fight forest fires. Being an aircraft which carries proportionally to its size such a large load, its flight operations are complex.

Furthermore, pilots have to operate in areas with challenging landscapes and flight conditions, such as smoke and obstacles.

An Avialsa pilot trains in the A12 AT-802F simulator. Note the curved screen.

AFF-8

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For these reasons, Avialsa’s investment in the A12 simulator is important.

With the simulator, a pilot can fly within these environments safely. All procedures and any emergencies that may be encountered can be duplicated, whereas they are impossible to train for in actual flight.

Although the AT-802F can be considered a complex plane due to its size and weight, what is really difficult is the transition from the “light” model single engine aircraft, like the AT-502 with a 750 SHP engine and 500-gallon

The lighted cockpit of Avialsa’s AT-802F simulator.

(1893-liter) hopper to the AT-802F with engines available from 1295 SHP and 1600 SHP. This fact alone requires a number of hours of flight training due to the different inertias between the models, being that the AT-802F is heavier (16,000 pounds/7,257 kgs certified maximum gross weight versus 9,400 pounds/4,263 kg for the AT-502) and therefore operational procedures must be more strict.

The AT-802F simulator has multiple databases with real worldwide scenarios.

The AT-802F simulator has multiple databases with real worldwide scenarios with the aim to offer realistic environments so pilots can

recognize indicative elements from the landscape and train accordingly. One advantage of the simulator is the exact reproduction of the AT-802F cockpit which familiarizes the pilot with the aircraft’s operation: controls pressures are adjusted to represent the same forces felt in actual flight conditions. The pilot can experience operations using the simulator that would be difficult or impossible to train for during a real flight.

The AT-802F simulator is located at Avialsa’s flight training offices. There is a briefing room and a classroom. The AT-802F simulator cockpit has a threechannel, 160º x 35º vision screen that software images are projected upon.

It also has an instructor command position, where the instructor can program the desired operation, including engine flame outs and emergencies on the ground or in flight. It can simulate operations with traditional landing gear

or amphibious floats, recreating all flight operations an AT-802F is capable of performing.

Avialsa has received certification of the AT-802F A12 simulator and training has begun with it. Air Tractor Europe’s participation with Avialsa’s simulator provides a complete sales package that can include the aircraft and training.

The simulator will also be an advantage for Avialsa company pilots, providing advanced training, as well as other operators who can use the simulator for their training or to obtain new ratings for their flight crews.

The Avialsa AT-802F A12 simulator provides an improved quality of training within a safe flight environment.

For more information contact: Hugo Arceo at info@airtractoreurope.com

Spring 2016

AFF-9

FlightSafety International and Aeroglobo initiate a new era in training FlightSafety International recently selected AeroGlobo Aeronaves of Botucatu Brazil to be its exclusive partner in South America for training mechanics, pilots and other professionals for maintenance on all Pratt & Whitney Canada turboprop engines installed on helicopters, agricultural airplanes, executive and commercial aircraft. The first training session was held February 29-March 04, 2016.

“We look to the future with AeroGlobo when we chose to move forward with our training program in Brazil,” said David Davenport, executive vice-president of FlightSafety that is based in Dallas, Texas. The company delivers more than one million hours of training per year for pilots, maintenance technicians, flight attendants and brokers from 167 countries.

The company has 40 training centers in the USA, Australia, Canada, China, France, Japan, Netherlands, Norway, United Kingdom and South Africa, including AeroGlobo as its representative in South America. “The reputation of our new Brazilian partner ensures professionals will receive the highest quality training,” said Davenport.

To adapt to the rigorous standards of FlightSafety, AeroGlobo has made a large investment in infrastructure and equipment for its training center. FlightSafety provided engines and a simulator for practical training.

“Another advantage of AeroGlobo is we train using instructors who speak Portuguese and Spanish, not requiring a translator for our Latin customers,” said Fabiano Zacarelli Cunha, owner of AeroGlobo.

AeroGlobo’s training center has easy access to restaurants and hotels in Botucau. Located at 840 meters MSL, Botucatu is a town known for its pleasant climate. The city has about 140,000 inhabitants and is 235 kilometers from São Paulo. It is also home to a group of universities led by UNESP, one of the largest in the country.

Botucatu is fairly easy to access via the Viracopos International Airport in Campinas, as well as major airports in São Paulo.

AeroGlobo was formed 10 years ago and is in a partnership with Lane Aviation representing the sales and service of Air Tractors for South America. The company offers training for Air Tractor turbine transition, maintenance and firefighting.

Today, along with its main location in Botucatu, it has service centers throughout Brazil in its main agricultural areas. This year, AeroGlobo opened a branch in Argentina and another in Rondonópolis Mato Grosso.

AFF-10

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AereGlobo’s training center is equipped with a simulator qualified for Air Tractor AT-402B, AT-502B and AT-802 training. Other functions of AeroGlobo include the marketing of aircraft, support parts and services, aviation insurance and the sales and service of Satloc DGPS units.

Partners of AeroGlobo enthusiastically received the news on the initiative with FlightSafety. “The association of FlightSafety with AeroGlobo will be valuable for both companies, since it adds the excellence of the American company with one of the best training centers of South America,” said Thiago Magalhães Silva, managing partner of Aeroagrícola Chapadão based in Orlândia.

For Ruddigger Alves da Silva, director ABA commercial aircraft maintenance based in Barreiras, “They are two companies of unquestionable competence offering many advantages for those who are accustomed to service of the highest quality.”

AeroGlobo training is free of charge for customers who acquire aircraft fitted with PWC engines. For each acquired aircraft, training is available to two professionals over a period of up to five years. For more information, visit: aeroglobo.com.br.

Senator John McCain confirmed to address aerial firefighting leaders This year’s Aerial Firefighting International conference will be held in Sacramento, California (22-23 March 2016), Senator John McCain, the U.S. Senator for Arizona, has agreed to provide a Welcome Address via video link. Senior figures including Art Hinaman, Assistant Director of Aviation at US Forest Service, Mark Bathrick, Director Office of Aviation Services Department of Interior, Commissioner Shane Fitzsimmons, NSW Rural Fire Service, Australia and Victor DeVouge, Head of Aerial Division from the Ministry of Interior, France will also address the conference.

The completed program encompasses a wide range of current issues faced by today’s aerial fire fighters including future technology research and development, the military’s role in aerial fire fighting, as well as strategic and tactic analyses of fire fighting methods.

International delegations from Australia, Brazil, Canada, France, Hungry, Israel, Spain, Turkey and the UK will be joining military and civilian aerial firefighters from the US to liaise, develop and promote best practice in the discipline of manned and unmanned helicopter, SEAT and air tanker operations for the suppression of wildfires.

“The Aerial Firefighting International conference facilitates and enhances interagency exchange, demonstrates the latest aerial technologies in both a static and live setting and maintains vital networking opportunities between international partners from the aerial firefighting communities,” said Phil Guy, Managing Director, of Tangent Link, the event organizer.

On the morning of the second day, delegates will

be transported to McClellan Air Base where they will witness live aerial firefighting demonstrations and will also have the opportunity to view a number of static aircraft and equipment displays.

This is the 6th Aerial Firefighting International conference to be staged in North America since 2009.

For further information on attending please contact Lauran Allen at lallen@tangentlink.com.

call us for your next S.E.A.T. aircraft

Lane Aviation, Inc. “Specializing in Turbine and Piston Air Tractors”

888-995-5263 281-342-5451 TEL • 281-232-5401 FAX glane@laneav.com • www.laneav.com

Spring 2016

AFF-11

Aerial Firefighting International 2016

Participating Agency

Conference | Exhibition | Static Display | Aerial Demonstrations Sacramento CA, USA | 22 – 23 March 2016

13 AFF - Now in its 13th edition A successful international conference & exhibition series 2013: Aix-en-Provence, France 245 Attendees, 91 Organisations, 28 Countries 2014: Sacramento, USA 200 Attendees, 110 Organisations, 16 Countries 2015: Zadar, Croatia 200 Attendees, 150 Organisations, over 20 Countries

2016: Sacramento, USA 300 Attendees, 150 Organisations, over 20 Countries anticipated

Interested in participating?

Please contact Lauran Allen for more details: Email: lallen@tangentlink.com | Tel: +44 (0) 1628 660400 Our Sponsors Principal VIP Sponsor

Joint Gold Sponsors

&

Bronze Sponsors

AFF-12 For more Web: www.tangentlink.com | Tel: +44 (0) 1628 660400 A E R I A information: L F I R E F I G H T I N G ’ S Email N E W S P A lallen@tangentlink.com P E R

Aerial Firefighting International 2016 conference agenda Tuesday March 22, 2016 0745 - 0830 Registration & Refreshments 0830 - 0845 Chairman’s Introduction—Rear Admiral

Terry Loughran CB FRAeS, Royal Navy, UK 0845 - 0855 Welcome Address—Chief Ken Pimlott, Director,

Director, California Department of Forestry and

Fire Protection (CAL FIRE), USA 0855 - 0900 Video Message—Senator John McCain,

United States Senator for Arizona, USA 0900 - 0930 Keynote Address—Mark L Bathrick, Director,

Office of Aviation Services (OAS), US Department

of the Interior & Arthur W. Hinaman, Assistant

Director for Aviation, US Forest Service, USA Session – Safety 0930 - 1000 Latest Research into Fatal Aviation Accidents in

Wildfire Operations—LCDR Corey R. Butler,

Occupational Safety & Health Specialist/Wildland

Fire Program Manager & CAPT Mary O’Connor,

Epidemiologist/Aviation Program Manager,

Centers for Disease Control & Prevention/National

Institute for Occupational Safety & Health

(CDC/NIOSH), USA 1000 - 1030 The Human Factors of Using Night Vision Goggle

Technologies in Aerial Wildfire Operations—

Michelle Gauthier, Human Factors Professional,

Canada (co-author Dr Avi Parush, Associate

Professor, The Israel Institute of Technology

& Carleton University) 1030 - 1045 Panel Session 1045 - 1115 Refreshment Break & Networking Session – Military Aerial Firefighting Operations 1115 - 1145 The Israeli Perspective—Lt Colonel Eran Ben Shabat,

Aerial Firefighting Squadron Commander,

Israeli Air Force, Israel (invited) 1145 - 1215 Interoperability in Out of Area Operations—

Captain Ernesto Jesús Bonet Peña, Pilot,

Spanish Air Force, Spain 1215 - 1245 Operating Safely in the Wildfire Environment—

Colonel Robert Spano, Director Joint Staff,

California Military Department,

California National Guard, USA 1245 - 1300 Question & Answer Session 1300 - 1415 Buffet Lunch & Networking Session – Future Technologies, Research & Development 1415 - 1435 Use of Long-Term Fire Retardant for Direct Attack—

Edward Goldberg, Business Director, ICL Fire Safety,

ICL Performance Products, USA 1435 - 1505 Feasibility of Night Operations – Findings from the

Night Operations Summit—Melissa Lineberger, Director,

Center of Excellence for Advanced Technology Aerial

Firefighting, USA 1505 - 1525 Roles for Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UAS) in Aerial Firefighting—William Tart, Vice President, Business

Development, Unmanned Systems & ISR Programs,

DynCorp International, USA 1525 - 1600 Refreshment Break & Networking 1600 - 1620 HyDropTM – an Innovative Solution for Aerial Firefighting—Shlomo Alkaher, Vice President, AAFF

Business Development, Elbit Systems Aerospace, Israel

1620 - 1650 I4F Technology—Agoston Restas, PhD, Associate

Professor, Head of National University of Public Service, Hungary 1650 - 1705 Question & Answer Session 1705 - 1715 Chairman’s Closing Remarks 1715 Drinks Reception sponsored by Airbus Helicopters

Conference Dinner sponsored by DynCorp including the

presentation of The Walt Darran International Aerial

Firefighting Award

Wednesday March 23, 2016 0800 - 0830 Registration & Refreshments 0830 - 0900 Shuttle bus service to McClellan Air Base 0900 - 1030 Dynamic display:

• Static aircraft display

• Live demonstrations 1030 - 1100 Shuttle bus service to McClellan Convention Centre

& Refreshment Break 1100 - 1105 Chairman’s Opening Remarks—Rear Admiral

Terry Loughran CB FRAeS, Royal Navy, UK Session – Tactics, Testing & Strategies 1105 - 1135 Aerial Firefighting Use & Effectiveness (AFUE) Study—Bob Roth, Regional Aviation Safety

Manager, US Forest Service, USA 1135 - 1205 Case Study – Large Air Tanker Tactics & Strategies—

Shane Fitzsimmons, Commissioner, New South

Wales Rural Fire Service, Australia 1205 - 1330 Buffet Lunch & Networking 1330 - 1400 French Aerial Firefighting Tactics & Strategies—

Victor Devouge, Head of the Aerial Division,

Sécurité Civile (Ministry of Interior), France 1400 - 1415 Panel Session Session – Future Platforms in Aerial Firefighting 1415 - 1435 146/RJ – The Versatile Aircraft—John Stevens,

Head of Customer Support & Graham Smith,

Head of Business Development,

BAE Systems Regional Aircraft, UK 1435 - 1500 Refreshment Break & Networking 1500 - 1530 Small Unmanned Aircraft for Enhanced Situational Awareness—Bryan Brown, Systems Engineer,

University of Cincinnati, USA 1530 – 1550 The Growing Need for an All Hazards Capable

Utility Aircraft—Benoit Terral, Operational

Marketing, Airbus Helicopters, France 1550 – 1620 Unmanned Aircraft Systems in Support of

Firefighters & the Communities they Protect –

An Interagency Update—Mark L Bathrick, Director,

Office of Aviation Services (OAS), US Department

of the Interior, USA 1620 - 1635 Question & Answer Session 1635 - 1645 Chairman’s Closing Remarks

For further information on attending Aerial Firefighting International please contact Lauran Allen at: lallen@tangentlink.com

Spring 2016

AFF-13

Simplex Aerospace celebrates 70 years of aviation mission equipment innovation PORTLAND, OR—Aviation mission equipment leader Simplex Aerospace is celebrating its 70th anniversary in 2016. Since entering the agricultural spray market in 1946, Simplex has grown into an internationally renowned aerospace technology company specializing in the design, manufacturing and certification of aerial application equipment. With over 185 FAA and international certifications, 23 international representatives, and five service centers, Simplex has become the preferred partner for helicopter OEMs, governments, and private operators worldwide.

While agricultural application equipment remains one of the company’s strongest markets, Simplex has diversified its products with the introduction of several new and innovative product lines. Since entering the aerial firefighting market in the early 1990s, Simplex has expanded its fleet of helicopter Fire Attack™ belly tanks with models for most major OEM platforms. Most recently, Simplex delivered a brand new 4,000-liter, Fire Attack™ System to the Chinese helicopter manufacturer, Avicopter. In addition, Simplex recently certified a 3,050-gallon Fire Attack™ system for the Boeing CH-47D Chinook. With the danger of wildland fires continuing to rise

around the world, Simplex is committed to working closely with OEMs and operators to produce durable, safe and efficient firefighting systems specifically designed and matched to aircraft capabilities.

Recognizing the need for a safer, more efficient method of cleaning power line insulators and wind mill blades, Simplex introduced a new generation power line and windmill cleaning and de-icing spray systems in 2008. Aerial Cleaning and DeIcing Systems were certified for the Bell 407 (Model 508) in 2008 and for the AS350 & 355 series (Model 510) in 2012.

These highly productive Aerial Cleaning and De-Icing systems have been delivered to operators in the United States, Canada, Morocco, Egypt, South Africa and Angola.

In 2009 Simplex began developing a rapid response horizontal spray system, nicknamed the SkyCannon™, for combating fires in high rise buildings. Mark Zimmerman, President and CEO of Simplex Aerospace explained, “The SkyCannon™ is a rapid response skyscraper firefighting system with the capabilities of a ground based fire truck.” The SkyCannon allows aerial firefighters to arrive at the fire quickly free of traffic congestion and prevent the fire from spreading as ground firefighting crews combat the fire from within the building providing occupants valuable time to evacuate. To date Simplex has produced SkyCannon systems for the Avicopter AC313 and the H225 helicopters. The company plans to adapt the system to additional aircraft platforms in the future.

When asked how the company has maintained its competitive edge over so many years, Mark Zimmerman commented, “Customers have come to recognize Simplex as a trusted source of certified, reliable, high quality systems backed by a state of the art on-site engineering and customer service staff. Our customers know they can count on us to keep them in the air performing their missions. That is a commitment every Simplex employee takes very seriously.”

When asked about Simplex’s future, Mark Zimmerman commented, “Simplex Aerospace will continue to grow at an accelerated pace over the next decade driven by new innovative aerial mission equipment focused on the un-met needs of aircraft operators worldwide.”

E-mail: mail@simplexmfg.com

AFF-14

Phone# +1 503-257-3511

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N E W S P A P E R

Founded in 1946, Simplex has built a reputation as the leader in design, manufacturing and certification of aerial application systems and mission equipment for helicopters. Simplex maintains its industry leadership by incorporating the latest technology in designing and manufacturing systems from high-strength, low-weight composite materials to produce reliable and cost-effective systems for firefighting, agriculture, utilities maintenance and other aerial applications. For more information, please visit our website www.simplex.aero.

Aircraft Structural Inspection providing NDT inspections Aircraft Structural Inspection is a Non Destructive Testing Company that is an FAA Repair station that also participates in an FAA Antidrug and alcohol misuse prevention program. Our Focus is in the Aviation and Aerospace industries.

The company can provide NDT Inspections in: Penetrant PT, Magetic Particle MT, Eddy Current ET, Ultra Sonic UT and X-Ray RT. We also provide Level III Services for those methods We can also provide initial and recurrency certification and training in those methods or can help with training that maybe required by the FAA for a part 145 Training Program.

Aircraft Structural Inspection can provide NDT Inspections in: Penetrant PT, Magetic Particle MT, Eddy Current ET, Ultra Sonic UT and X-Ray RT. Inspection services meet ASNT and NAS-410 certification requirements and ASTM testing standards. Our customers include other repair stations, maintenance facilities, and owner operators. ASI inspects aircraft and components from GA aircraft, business jets, 135 charter operators, and 121 manufacturers including: McDonnell Douglas, Boeing, Airbus, Hawker Beechcraft, Cessna, Sikorsky, Bell, Pratt & Whitney, and Honeywell Allied Signal.

Certifications NDT Level III ASNT in Magnetic Particle, Penetrant, and Eddy Current and NDT Level II ASNT & NAS410 in Magnetic Particle, Penetrant & Eddy Current as well as an NDT Level II in Ultra Sonic and X-Ray. Membership includes FAA Safety Team Representative, ASNT American Society of Non-destructive Testing, and is a participating member of ASTM American Society Testing Material serving on the Non Destructive Testing Committee which is the leading organization that writes and reviews NDT written practices and standards used throughout the world.

For more information on inspection services and training you can visit our web site: www.asindt.com or you can just call Beau at 870-270-6007 and we will be glad to visit with you about your NDT needs.

One Rule...

It Just Has To Be Right!

We provide NDT inspections & Level III services in these methods: • Penetrant PT • Ultra Sonic UT • Magnetic Particle MT • X-Ray RT • Eddy Current ET • Non Destructive Testing

Aircraft Structural Inspections LLC PO Box 2133 • Mountain View, Arkansas 72560 USA 870-270-6007 • 870-585-2415 www.asindt.com • beaundt@gmail.com • FAA CRS#1NPR910B

Spring 2016

AFF-15

Trotter Controls, Inc. adds DataVault to its firefighting product line FORT WORTH, TEXAS — Trotter Controls, Inc announces the addition of DataVault to the AeroCloud family of firefighting and telemetry products.

Building on more than 20 years of experience in the aerial firefighting industry, the AeroCloud DataVault is a uniquely open platform which enables operators to easily comply with the increasingly stringent reporting needs of authorities worldwide.

Available to order now, DataVault is a high performance telemetry and data acquisition system tailored to meet the needs of the aerial firefighting community.

For FRDS GEN II systems, the DataVault simply plugs into the Pilot Interface Unit to access all gate parameters via a proprietary internal data bus.

Although optimized for use with the FRDS Gen II, DataVault is a truly open “plug and play” device. For third party gate controllers, the DataVault can either analyze the gate controller’s serial bus or monitor analog and digital sensors directly to capture proof of delivery data according to both NAFC and USFC requirements.

The DataVault already supports basic connectivity with the ConAir gate controller allowing users of this equipment to easily comply with NAFC and upcoming USFS real time reporting and tracking requirements.

A built-in FCC approved module is used to send gate and aircraft data in near real time via the Iridium satellite constellation for display to an operator or firefighting authority.

With its internal GPS and TSO dual function antenna, DataVault provides advanced tracking services which relay position data via the Iridium network to TracPlus (NAFC AFAMS integration partner for Australia, and tracking service provider) on a configurable time or distance basis. The optional Pilot Message Interface allows the pilot to adjust easily the tracking transmission interval parameter to a specific time or geo-fence to optimize transmission bandwidth when operating in limited geographical territory.

The Pilot Message Interface, available in early 2016, also supports transmission of geo-tagged waypoint markers such as “persons in danger” or “property at risk”. In conjunction with TracPlus, acknowledged Distress Messaging and ground to air text messages are

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also supported without the need for sim cards.

DataVault has both fixed and removable data storage, which when combined with its internal motion sensors, enables deep post-mission analysis to assess delivery efficiency, aircraft utilization and pilot performance.

Internal memory constantly records more than 40 parameters, including geo-tags, at intervals as short as 0.1s and has capacity for more than 1,000 flight hours.

Information can also be collected on a USB stick and uploaded to an Internet accessible database for mission replay, plotting, reporting and sharing data with authorized third parties.

Configured via a comprehensive set of PC-based DataVault tools, the “Pro” model delivers the ability to add user digital or analog inputs which can be easily scaled to actual units of measure, recorded and transmitted in real time to a base station via third-party products such as TracMap or FlightCell’s DMZ device.

“Pro” models of the DataVault include the ability to drive electric motors, on/off and proportional valves to enable control of other equipment on the aircraft.

For further information or to learn more about how the AeroCloud product family can help maximize the efficiency of your aerial operations, contact Carey Gray at Trotter Controls Inc, 817-5352243 or carey@trottercontrols.com, or visit http://www.aerocloud.us

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PLUG AND PLAY COMPATIBLE WITH FRDS GEN II AND OTHERS LOGGED PROOF OF DELIVERY • Simple instrument panel interface • Pilot-accessible USB port • Excel-compatible data files • Mission playback with map overview for review and training • Management software provides: - Management of multiple aircraft - Playback of missions - Storage archive of past missions - Mission summaries REAL-TIME DATA • Enables aircraft to transmit location information and operations data to fire services in real time.

• Compatible with several GPS and data transmission services, via satellite or cell network. (via optional FlightCell System)

COMPLETE TELEMETRY CAPTURE • GPS path of drop • Locations of start and end of drop • Real-time retardant quantity on-board • Amount of retardant dropped • Drop Mode (Auto, Timer, Manual, Salvo) • Coverage Setting • Calculated Ground Line • Measured Ground Line (with GPS) • Engine start and stop • Take off and landing • Pilot-selectable data formats and rates with optional Message Center • And much more...

ADDED FEATURES WITH OPTIONAL MESSAGE CENTER • MARK transmits POIs and prompts the pilot to select preset markers.

• MSG allows for two-way text comms with operations using message presets. (No SIM Card Needed) • EMERGENCY sends distress message and location.

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Contact: Carey Gray carey@trottercontrols.com www.trottercontrols.com

Fort Worth, TX, USA: 817-535-2243 Valencia, Spain: 96-3140390 Melbourne, Australia: 6-136-387-7129 Madrid, Spain: 91-8292744 Ontario, Canada: 519-488-1730 Brazil: 55-21-395-80585

FREE SIM

DOWNLOAD

www.frds.us/sim Spring 2016

AFF-17

Avialsa celebrates its 50th anniversary

Powered by a 1600 HP Pratt & Whitney Engine

Avialsa gathered employees and their families at the aerodrome of Viver

Over 70 Operating Worldwide

Montenegro

Spain

Australia

Canada United States Macedonia Argentina

651.209.7191

www.firebossllc.com

1700 Henry Avenue — Fleming Field South, St. Paul, MN 55075

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On 12 December, the Valencian aerospace company, Avialsa T-35 SL, celebrated its 50th anniversary. The event was attended by over 200 people, including workers and their families. The event also served to inaugurate the facilities that the company has in the Technological Park of Paterna (Valencia).

After visiting the new facilities, which allowed all to see up close the new A12 AT-802F simulator, they moved to the Viver airfield where a discharge demonstration was held using an AT-802F Air Tractor. Vicente Huerta, Avialsa manager, gave a speech in which he told how in 1965 his father, Vicente Huerta and Francisco Villar, created the first company in Spain for aerial agricultural applications that is today Avialsa.

During the ceremony, employees with more than 25 years working for the company were recognized. The event ended with a meal in which employees and friends enjoyed a special day.

Spring 2016

AFF-19

Rebuilding the fleet

by Marc Mulllis At one time the United States heavy air tanker aerial firefighting fleet numbered in the mid forties. Attrition, accidents and the demise of several air tanker companies saw that number decline to just nine only a few years ago. These nine were all Korean War vintage aircraft powered by piston engines. During this decline, the United States Forest Service (USFS), which administers the heavy air tanker contracts, dragged their feet in developing a plan to rebuild the fleet. Finally in early 2012, the USFS issued solicitations for bids for seven next generation heavy air tankers. The solicitation said they must be turbine powered, cruise over 300 knots and have a payload of at least 3,000 gallons of retardant.

Contracts were awarded to five different companies for aircraft that included BAe-146, MD-87, Avro RJ-85, Douglas

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DC-10 and Lockheed C-130 aircraft. By the 2015 fire season, all these aircraft were on contract and flying on fires.

The aircraft proved to be very capable and after working through expected teething problems were in very high demand. With their higher cruise speeds and greater capacity, they could cover a larger area and be much more productive than the older legacy air tankers. Their high speed required the USFS to add jet powered lead planes to their fleet in the form of the Cessna Citation Jet. In 2015, the USFS issued solicitations for seven more next generation air tankers.

The same five companies filled the bids.

Some of these aircraft are ready to go now and some, if not all, will be working during the upcoming 2016 fire season.

When funds were appropriated, $65 million was given to the USFS to acquire their own firefighting aircraft. This

just happens to be the cost of one new Lockheed C-130 aircraft.

Meanwhile in a convoluted deal between the USFS, the United States Air Force (USAF) and the United States Coast Guard (USCG,) the USFS wound up with seven Lockheed C-130s that had previously been operated by the USCG. As part of the deal, the USAF will complete all inspections and conversions to firefighting before handing the aircraft over to the USFS. Flight crews and all maintenance will be contracted.

At least one of these seven aircraft will be available for the 2016 fire season.

Slowly but surely, the heavy air tanker fleet is building back up. I do not foresee 44 “heavies” on contract again, but with the added capabilities of today’s heavies, maybe we will soon see the day when all orders for heavies will be filled during a busy fire season.

Turbine Installation, LLC

5017 Aviation Way Caldwell, ID 83605

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Air Tractor AT-802 Powered by Honeywell TPE331-14GR 1650 SHP 4500 HSI/9000 CAM Spring 2016

AFF-21

Aerial firefighting’s tool box

by Marc Mullis America’s aerial firefighting fleet is a large and diversified one. Often referred to as a tool box with each tool having a specific use. The heavy air tankers are used to build retardant lines, helicopters are used to cool down hot spots and ferry equipment and personnel.

Scoopers are very effective when there is a ready body of water nearby. Then, there are the Single Engine Air Tankers (SEATs), probably the most versatile tool in the box.

Of the approximately 75 SEATs in the U.S., 33 are on a federal Exclusive Use contract while the rest serve on state contracts or On Call. All Exclusive Use pilots are initial attack qualified, which means they do not require any type of supervision and often times are the first asset to arrive on a fire. Large fires make the news, while thousands of small fires escape the spotlight every year because a couple of SEATs were dispatched at the

first sighting of smoke. These aircraft are stationed across the west in historical prone fire areas during the summer fire season. Usually, based in pairs they can operate from small municipal airports and with their self-contained support equipment can quickly reposition to wherever the need arises.

SEATs are also used on extended attack fires building lines right alongside the heavies or reinforcing weak spots.

Because of their maneuverability, they are used where larger tankers cannot operate. A Fire Traffic Area (FTA) can be a very busy place. The aircraft are separated by altitude with rotor wing aircraft positioned low, SEATs 500 feet above, heavies another 500 above and aerial supervision on top directing traffic.

I have seen as many as twenty aircraft safely operating in a FTA at one time.

Install a set of amphibious floats on an Air Tractor AT-802 and it becomes a scooper

The Air Tractor AT-802F Fire Boss is a versatile 800-gallon capacity scooper with its Wiplnger floats and powerful Pratt & Whitney PT6A-67F engine.

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known as the Fire Boss. Although, it has taken a few years for them to catch on in the USA, they have now become very popular. Fire Managers have finally figured out that they can be used on the same mission as a Type 1 helicopter at a fraction of the cost. If there is a nearby water supply, a tremendous amount of water can be delivered in a short amount of time. I know Fire Boss pilots that have completed 55-60 loads in one day.

The SEAT program has really matured and is here to stay. If within forty miles of the fire, they are the least expensive method of retardant delivery for the government. Four SEATs positioned close to a fire can deliver more than 60,000 gallons of retardant a day at a cost far less than any other asset. SEATs are just another tool in the box, but on a per gallon delivered basis they are by far the one of the best tools in the chest.

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Parts 870-295-6218 Tel 870-295-6213 Fax 870-295-6674 frostparts@hotmail.com March 2016

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