QCM design provides the EASA STC for the installation of a switch to allow the pilot flying the AS350B3e the option of being able to select either the existing ‘upper’ hook or ‘lower’ hook for release during an operation.

This STC provides the assurance the ease of load release during operation throughout any phase of flight.

For helicopters commonly used in the alpine region, the option of being able to select either the existing ‘upper’ hook or ‘lower’ hook for release during an operation assures the ease of load release during operation throughout any phase of flight.

The STC introduced a switch and an annunciator to the cockpit panel. The “Upper” or “Lower” hooks can be released via a knob (push button) which is already installed on the pilot’s Cyclic Stick.

The switch allows for the selection of the “Upper” or “Lower” hook, and the annunciator indicates to the pilot which of the hooks has been selected.

Once the appropriate hook is selected on that switch, the pilot can release the load by pressing the ‘release knob’ on the Stick.

The addition of the hook release catch in the helicopter assures the ease of load release during operation throughout any phase of flight and, in case of an emergency, the co-pilot can shut off the upper hook using the Emergency Activation button available on the control stick.