BAE Systems Avionics, which is based in Basildon, has landed a contract to equip a French helicopter fleet with a hi-tech safety system.

The company, which has its headquarters on Christopher Martin Road, will supply, install and support its integrated Health and usage monitoring system (IHUMS) to a fleet of nine helicopters flown by French operator Heli-Union.

Health and usage monitoring systems are designed to improve the safety and reliability of helicopters by monitoring their key systems and warning of any potential failures.

It includes a cockpit voice recorder, a flight data recorder, engine vibration monitoring and engine performance monitoring. The support contract will include a technical helpline manned by a dedicated support team, regular training courses and regular assessment reviews of the system.

BAE Systems Avionics IHUMS have now flown over one million flying hours and are in operation in most regions of the world.

Published Tuesday January 15, 2002