Donaldson Aerospace & Defense, a division of Donaldson Company, Inc. (NYSE: DCI), has received a Supplemental Type Certificate (STC) from the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) for an Inlet Barrier Filter (IBF) system for the AgustaWestland AW109 Power, Grand, Grand New (E/S/SP) helicopters. This new IBF prevents engine damage in adverse and ramp environments alike. AW109 Power and Grand operators will also benefit from reduced operating costs, without experiencing performance or drag penalties.

Developed with the assistance of AgustaWestland, the new IBF is a drop-in system with minimal installation impact. Features include streamlined conformal filter assemblies on each side, mounted into the existing engine cowl. As with all certified Donaldson IBFs, the system includes an alternate inlet air bypass system, mounted and hidden within the AW109 upper aft fairing. This emergency bypass capability is an important IBF feature, not included with particle separator alternatives. The IBF does not interfere with the sliding door on either configuration, and the filter design allows for quick removal and service.

A simple compact cockpit switch, common with existing Donaldson certified systems, allows indication and activation of the bypass system. And, as with all Donaldson IBFs, an integral Filter Maintenance Aid allows for on-condition inspections pre- and post-flight. A new access panel has been added for easy access to the bypass system and maintenance aid so both pilots and ground crew can perform quick and simple pre-flight assessments.

Providing the most comprehensive line of IBF solutions, Donaldson Aerospace & Defense is the industry leader in the design, development and manufacture of high-performance engine IBF systems for commercial and military propulsion systems. Through its St. Louis, Missouri location, Donaldson provides certified IBF solutions for the AgustaWestland AW119 Koala, AW119Ke and AW139; Bell 205A1, 206B, 407, 206L-3/4, 206L-1(C30), 429 and 430; Eurocopter EC130, AS350 B/BA/B1/B2/B3, AS350s with Soloy or Heli-Lynx Honeywell engine conversions; and MD Helicopters MD 369H Series, MD 500D/E/F and MD 900/902.

To learn more about the Donaldson Aerospace & Defense group, visit www.DonaldsonAerospace-Defense.com.