ARHT get STC for their BK helicopter

While some operators are happy to have the TracMap unit rest on the pilots knee, and the heads up display lightbar supported on velcro whenever they fly a search mission requiring pattern guidance, the Auckland Rescue Helicopter Trust decided it wanted to have the flexibility of leaving the TracMap unit permanently installed.

"This means it is immediately available whenever we need to use it" said Dave Walley, Chief Pilot with the ARHT.

From their experience to date with the TracMap system, the Auckland Rescue Helicopter expect to reduce the average time to achieve a succesful search outcome by over 30%, which makes a huge improvement in succesful outcomes.

While not technically difficult, due to the TracMap's light weight and low power demand, being a 1st time install means it has taken months to get the final paperwork signoff.

"However, we have achieved it now, and it means we can start getting maximum use from the system" said Dave.

The photo shows the TracMap system in the ARHT's BK.  The main headunit is on the left, and the heads up display on the instument consul in the centre right of the photo.