Description
For as long as helicopters have been in operation, soft terrain landings have created balancing problems during takeoff and landings. DART Aerospace Bearpaws are constructed of a high density polymer, not plywood, aluminum or composite; this polymer resists cracking, chipping and breaking. The one-piece machined construction ensures consistent and deliberate load transfer. This flexible material deflects under high-point contact loads when landing on rocks or roots; its inherent memory ensures the Bearpaws return to their original shape upon take off.
*Compatible with DART emergency float system. If installing on shorter, block 1 skidtubes compatibility kit DSI 9796-011 is required. Price is per aircraft.
Key Features
- Lightest bearpaws available for 505
- Wearplates available
- CNC machined UHMW polymer provides consistent load transfer
Key Benefits
- No modifications to skidtube required
- More durable than steel or fiberglass skis
- High strength polymer with memory, deflects under critical point loading without failure and returns to original shape when unloaded
- Keeps tail high in soft terrain to prevent tail strikes
- Lightweight
- Easy to install
- Won't chip, crack or break
- Float compatible
Approvals
| Approval type | Authority | Reference number | Aircraft approved | Description |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| STC | FAA - USA | SR04120NY | 505 | Installation of bearpaws |
| STC | TCCA - Canada | SH18-10 | 505 | Bearpaw Ski Pad Installation |
| STC | EASA - Europe | 10065049 | 505 | Installation of Bearpaw Auxiliary Skid Pad |