Malabo
The 412s here are not operated 'fully' via the Bell RFM but by a 'MOD Military Release to Service'. This works in conjunction with the RFM but has several over-riding differences which, have been cleared by Bell.
The service does not want their student pilots using the ATT mode, as it is too automated and easy to fly but therefore prefer to use SAS mode for a more 'manual flight' mode therefore testing the student more. Thus, only the Honeywell SPZ-7600 3 axis AFCS was selected during the purchase of the aircraft in 1997.
When 2 extra 412EPs were purchased 10yrs ago, the a/c arrived with AHRS instead of TARSYNS. This is one of the a/c that had the 'Vertical Bounce' and some other 'odd' handling issues.
The service are requesting an inquiry into this area so that a student pilot does not suffer the same, potentially serious 'AP out' incident.
Last edited by wazz'n'zoom; 13th Jun 2010 at 14:05.