Originally Posted by
Savannah_Hey
I'm looking at purchasing a MD530F and would like to install an auxiliary fuel tank that does not have an STC, as a result of that the Aux fuel tank people say its not FAA approved.
Not all fuel tank installations require an STC. Some can be installed as a major alteration/field approval but without more specific information can’t offer any specific answers. What are the details of the tank? Is the tank for ferry flights or will it be considered a permanent installation? How will the tank be connected to the aircraft fuel system? Etc. Etc. Have you inquired with your APIA on this installation? Have installed a number of different fuels tanks, some STC’d and some not, so there are possibilities.
While pursuing a Special Experimental AWC will make the tank installation simple from a regulatory standpoint it will only cause you more headaches and restrictions given your stated mission. And whatever MD does with their aircraft falls under a different set of rules than from a Part 91 privately owned helicopter.