Goodrich Corporation's rotorblade ice protection system (RIPS) for AgustaWestland AW139 medium twin-engine helicopter has received certification from the European Aviation Safety Agency (EASA).
The RIPS, part of the AW139's full ice protection system, enables all-weather capability and makes it the first helicopter in its category certified to fly in known icing conditions.
RIPS uses Goodrich's DuraTherm electrothermal mats, which can tolerate considerable damage, including punctures, and continue to provide ice protection.
The system has also received approval from the US Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) and Transport Canada Civil Aviation (TCAA).
AgustaWestland ice protection system design team manager Enrico Bellussi said that the development of a completely integrated civil certified ice protection system was a first for both AgustaWestland and Goodrich.
