4 Point Harnesses And Long Lining

[tDawe]

I'll begin this topic by stating that I have ZERO hours of first hand long line experience, only some seat meat time in a 214 watching people who know what they're doing do it. I'll apologize in advance for asking what might be stupid questions.

 

 

 

 

The TSB has released their report on the tail rotor drive failure of a 214 involved in heli-logging operations in 2007

 

http://www.tsb.gc.ca/eng/rapports-reports/aviation/2007/a07p0209/a07p0209.asp

 

 

I've read a few TSB reports that always come back to hit on how the pilot should have been wearing his should straps in order to increase his chances of survival. But the report then goes on to acknowledge that this is not possible since you have to lean over to see the hook/load.

 

The TSB states that they've raised the issue with TC, who replied that it's the operators responsibility to comply with the CARs regarding restraints, but that "Transport Canada has a well-established process in place for assessing and approving supplemental aircraft equipment."

I'm curious how easy this process is. How many companies have modified seats/restraints in their aircraft to allow a pilot to wear shoulder straps and still lean out the door or bubble all day long? Do these systems actually work from a pilots point of view? Is it a big production to get an STC for a modified pilots seat?

And for the pilots of aircraft specifically designed for vertical reference, like a K-max or the crane, are your seats designed any differently, since the aircraft is purpose built?

[FREDDIE]

Always wore my shoulder belts in 214,212,205,204 no problem getting out the window. You just have to force yourself to wear them and get used to the shoulder harness

[Over-Talk]

I've seen these out in the field.

http://www.alpineaerotech.com/Aerotech_Products_vertical_ref_seat.htm

How are they???

[FREDDIE]

The transwest mod is way better

[Skidmark]

I sat in a 212S at Eagle that was sporting their new door. Seemed nice in the hangar. Anyone got some time hang-in out that bubble? It would be one **** of a cut out if it distorted your view.

[hawthorn]

I've seen these out in the field.

http://www.alpineaerotech.com/Aerotech_Products_vertical_ref_seat.htm

How are they???

I use Alpine's tilting seat and find it works great for me. I keep both shoulder harnesses on while longlining which is a nice alternative to just having a lap belt on somewhat loosely.