From The Archives: Avionics System Lets Helicopter Crews Focus On Search, Rescue

Bell Helicopter Textron/Honeywell's avionics system for Bell's 214ST and 412 search and rescue (SAR) helicopters was demonstrated on a flight test by reporter and pilot Nicholas C. Kernstock.

The system gives the helicopter fully automatic navigation, approach to hover, search pattern, target designation, velocity/ hover hold, climb out capabilities.

In flying the system, Kernstock took the jump seat while chief test pilots Donald Bloom and Ralph Boyd took the pilot and co-pilot seats. 

He noted the 214ST cockpit was wide and while in the jump seat position he was able to view all the instruments and displays easily. 

To find out more about the flight, how the helicopter responded and see photographs of the cockpit instruments you'll need to be a subscriber. 

Subscribers can read the full article on page 50 of the Apr. 24, 1989 issue of Aviation Week & Space Technology. 

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