QUICK QUOTE HERE
Instant RFQ

How Do Emergency Floatation Systems Work on Helicopters?

Posted on December 11, 2019 Michael Rodriguez Aircraft Parts

Not many people are aware that helicopters and other aircraft have floatation systems in place in case of an emergency landing on water. These mechanisms are called Emergency Floatation System (EFS), a system which is engineered to keep the aircraft afloat for enough time to get the passengers to a safe place.

The EFS system was invented in the late 70’s and early 80’s when aviation experts realized that the number of fatalities during helicopter crash landings could be drastically reduced if there was a proper floatation system to prevent the aircraft from overturning in the water. They could see from research that by 1979, several helicopters from the US Navy and the Marine Corps had been involved in 64 emergency landings on water. Of those 64, 47 helicopters sunk after landing, thus resulting in the deaths of 47 people. Experts investigated each case and in a study, saw that 50% of those fatalities could have been prevented if the helicopter had been equipped with some kind of floatation system.
 
Because helicopters have a high mounted engine and transmission, the aircraft carries a high center of gravity. When on water, this will cause the aircraft to overturn in a matter of seconds, no matter how buoyant the aircraft might have been designed. That’s why engineers have crafted a device that could prevent the overturn, and ultimately, save lives. The floatation device can be stored inside the airframe spaces or fitted as an externally mounted pack on the lower structure of the aircraft. When activated, a blend of helium and other gasses stored in pressurised cylinders is used to inflate the floatation devices.
 
If you’re in need of more resources, information on acquiring helicopter EFS, or other emergency helicopter equipment, call our team now and see how quickly we can help you.
 
At ASAP Parts Unlimited, owned and operated by ASAP Semiconductor, we can help you find all the unique parts for the aerospace, civil aviation, and defense industries. We’re always available and ready to help you find all the parts and equipment you need, 24/7-365. For a quick and competitive quote, email us at sales@asappartsunlimited.comor call us at +1-714-705-4780.

fb tw ln

Recent Twitter Posts

Semiconductor’s Certifications and Memberships

No Chins The only independent
distributor with a
NO CHINA SOURCING Pledge
  • All Orders are Fulfilled in the U.S.A.
  • All shipments must comply with U.S.A export laws.
  • No exceptions.
Fallen Heros Fund

“We Proudly Support Intrepid Fallen Heroes Fund that serves United States Military Personal experiencing the Invisible Wounds of War : Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI) and Post Traumatic Stress (PTS). Please visit website (www.fallenheroesfund.org) and help in their valiant effort”.

Thanks for visiting!

Don’t forget That If You Use Google Chrome as Your Web Browser, You Can Download the ASAP Semiconductor Browser Plug-In to Stay Up to Date On Our Latest Deals.

Request for Quote

We use cookies to ensure that we give you the best experience on our website. If you continue to use this site we will assume that you are happy with it.

bottom to top