8-Feb-2010 Source: Simplex
Simplex Manufacturing has announced that it has now received FAA PMA on its newly acquired line of Helipod products, including the new spray system for the Robinson R44 helicopter.
Simplex purchased Helipod International in June of 2009 and successfully transferred all of the FAA and other STC’s during the remainder of 2009. Simplex was awarded PMA by the FAA for the Helipod line of cargo pods and spray systems just before Christmas 2009. EASA approval is expected spring of 2010.
Manufacturing of the FAA products is now based solely in Portland while the manufacturing of CAA approved products and the development of new Helipod-based products will continue in New Zealand. The first FAA/PMA cargo pod was delivered to Agrorotores Trabajos Aereos Ltda. of Chile in January.
The first R44 spray system built with FAA PMA will be shipped to PTE Systems of Beijing, China later this month. Due to the popularity of the spray systems, Simplex has added extra shifts in order to accommodate the demand for R44 spray systems with deliveries scheduled through June of this year.
Founded in 1946, Simplex has built a reputation as a leader in design, manufacturing, and certification of efficient, long lasting, and practical mission equipment for helicopters. Simplex maintains its industry leadership by incorporating proven technology and utilizing high-strength, low-weight composite materials in the design and manufacturing of its systems.