Helitak Firefighting Equipment has achieved a significant milestone with the FAA’s approval of its innovative FT-1300 retractable aerial firefighting tank for the Airbus AS350/H125 helicopter. Announced on December 16, 2024, the FAA Supplemental Type Certificate (STC) marks the culmination of years of development and rigorous testing.
The FT-1300 tank is groundbreaking as the first retractable firefighting tank tailored specifically for the AS350/H125 airframe. Its unique retractable design enables seamless integration without necessitating structural modifications to the helicopter or sacrificing internal space for carrying water or retardant.
Key Features of the FT-1300:
- Capacity: Holds up to 343 gallons (1300 liters) of water or fire retardant.
- Efficiency: Can be installed or removed in under 20 minutes.
- Adaptability: Compatible with all AS350/H125 airframes without altering the aircraft’s structure.
CEO’s Statement
Jason Schellaars, CEO of Helitak, expressed his enthusiasm:
“We see the AS350/H125 as a great initial attack helicopter and are very happy to see the FT-1300 tank certified by the FAA. The FT-1300 is our latest tank to receive FAA STC certification and will give aerial firefighting companies another airframe to add to their toolkit that can be used to fight fires around the world. We look forward to seeing it at work on fires in the near future.”
The certification solidifies Helitak’s role as a leader in advancing aerial firefighting technology. The FT-1300’s quick-deployment capability and robust design promise to enhance the efficiency and effectiveness of firefighting operations globally.
