Making its debut at Paris is Israeli firm BL Ground Support Equipment with its Portable Helicopter Starter and Tow Tractor.
The firm, found in the Israeli pavilion, develops and makes hydraulic and pneumatic ground support equipment for aircraft.
The starting unit has been designed for Sikorsky helicopters equipped with a hydraulic starter.
The unit, developed for the Israeli Air Force, is transportable, weighing in at 120kg (260lb), and provides starting capability for large helicopters in remote areas.
Interest
General manager Avi Kaplan says: "Much interest has already been shown by many air forces."
Also on view for the first time is the Aircraft Towing Tractor ATT-1, a new concept in towing without a tow-bar.
Also developed for the Israeli Air Force, this new concept in towing is safer, as Avi explains: "This equipment can avoid fatal accidents caused when the tow bar is disconnected from the aircraft.
"The driver of the ATT-1 sits very low and has a complete view of the aircraft, but his low position prevents injury by the wings of the aircraft, the hangar doors and from other parked aircraft."
Source: Flight Daily News
