THE CLIENT:

APPAREO

THE CHALLENGE:

Appareo, a leading aviation technology company, faced certification hurdles in bringing their second-generation data recording system to market. With a company downsizing and the absence of in-house certification expertise, Appareo needed a reliable partner to guide them through the complex regulatory landscape.

Our team worked with Appareo to bring the second generation of their product to market.

Considerations included:

FAA Mandate:

Complying with the FAA’s mandate requiring data recording systems in Helicopter Emergency Medical Services (HEMS)

STC Requirements: 

Obtaining an STC to establish operational requirements for helicopter operators so the product could be installed

Part 27 Certification:

Ensuring the product met the stringent standards of Part 27 certification for small helicopters.

Parts Manufacturing Authority (PMA):

Acquiring an STC and securing a PMA to legally produce the product’s parts for aviation use.

THE SOLUTION

Our team partnered with Appareo to overcome these challenges and accelerate their time to market. Our team provided comprehensive support throughout the entire certification process, including:

Regulatory Expertise:

Leveraging our deep understanding of FAA regulations and industry best practices

Design and Optimization:

Collaborating with Appareo to design an installation on helicopters that meets both current and future requirements including the operational requirement for Helicopter Emergency Medical Services (HEMS) while still certifying their product on Part 27 helicopters. 

The product design was developed to be capable of being used in other platforms without the need for a future redesign. 

Testing:

Conducted laboratory, ground and flight testing to support STC project.

STC and PMA Approvals:

Successfully obtaining the necessary STC and PMA approvals.

Ongoing Support:

Providing continuous support for STC amendments, foreign validation, and product improvements

Process Optimization:

Streamlining Appareo’s internal processes to enhance certification efficiencies and reduce liability.

THE RESULT

Balus Aero supported the successful launch of Appareo’s second generation data recording system. Our collaborative approach ensured that the product met all regulatory requirements and was ready for deployment in various aircraft platforms. Appareo’s data recording system hit the market and was approved for installation. 

Over the past 4 years, our team has maintained Appareo’s regulatory requirements and has successfully guided them through the process of foreign validation for use in other countries as well as numerous product improvements.