Anaheim, CA – GE Aerospace made a significant announcement today, revealing Henley Air as the primary adopter of their cutting-edge Rotor Analysis Diagnostic System Next Generation (RADS-NG). This innovative system is slated for integration across Henley Air’s diverse helicopter fleet, encompassing models such as the Bell 222 UT, Bell 206 and 206L, Bell 407, Dauphin AS 365, and Augusta 119 MK11.
André Coetzee, Executive Chairman of Henley Air, expressed enthusiasm for the partnership, stating, “The RADS-NG will position Henley Air as a frontrunner in advanced vibration analysis within our region. The ability to conduct regular, proactive vibration measurements on our varied helicopter fleet, coupled with the integration of data within GE Aerospace’s support structures, promises real-time benefits in extending engine and component longevity.”
Commencing in the first quarter, GE Aerospace will commence deliveries of RADS-NG to Henley Air, accompanied by comprehensive training and support to ensure seamless integration across the entire fleet.
Matt Burns, General Manager of Avionics at GE Aerospace, highlighted the operational advantages of the RADS-NG, stating, “This system empowers operators to streamline rotor track and balance operations and diagnostics, resulting in fewer flights, reduced flight and pilot time, and significant fuel savings. Developed with customer input, it offers enhanced control over adjustment solutions while catering to future needs.”
Replacing the RADS-AT (Advanced Technology) and the AVA (Aviation Vibration Analyser), the RADS-NG marks GE Aerospace’s latest advancement in portable vibration diagnostics, ideal for scenarios where permanent installation is impractical or as a complement to existing systems.
Building upon over three decades of proven reliability as the premier Rotor Track and Balance (RT&B) solution, the RADS-NG boasts a faster, more user-friendly interface and the versatility to accommodate all major helicopter models.
Renowned as the industry standard for RT&B and adopted as standard equipment by the U.S. Army and UK Navy, a single unit can support an entire fleet. With approximately 5,000 RADS-AT units supplied, spanning both civil and military rotorcraft, including popular models like the Airbus H125, Bell 412, Boeing CH-47, Sikorsky UH-60 Black Hawk, Leonardo AW139, and numerous others, the system’s adaptability extends to fixed-wing vibration diagnostics for aircraft like the Lockheed C-130 Hercules, and even the capability to support emerging eVTOL aircraft.
For further inquiries regarding how Rotor Track & Balance solutions can benefit your operations or to explore other products, please contact RADS.Sales@ge.com.
About Henley Air:
Henley Air is a specialised helicopter company situated at Rand Airport, Johannesburg. Offering a range of fleet and mission options throughout the Southern African region, including helicopter flight training, charter services, contract operations, and emergency medical services (HEMS), Henley Air’s commitment to maintaining a 24/7 service across four national operational bases led to the establishment of its own maintenance facility in early 2022. Visit www.henleyair.co.za for more information.