Thanks to 212man for posting this on the Cougar accident thread
Federal Register | Special Conditions: Sikorsky Aircraft Corporation Model S-92A Helicopter; Installation of a Search and Rescue (SAR) Automatic Flight Control System (AFCS)
Choice cuts
Intro
On July 30, 2007, Sikorsky applied for a change to Type Certificate (TC) No. R00024BO to install an optional SAR AFCS in the model S-92A helicopter.
But now, 3.5 years later
These special conditions were recently developed due to the intended function of the S-92A SAR AFCS not being completely defined until late in the certification program
So what features are not already in service with the UK Coast Guard?
Looking at the features of the AFCS I can't see anything that is not seen on other SAR helicopters.
The SAR system is composed of a navigation computer with SAR modes, an AFCS that provides coupled SAR functions, hoist operator control, a hover speed reference system, and two radio altimeters. The AFCS coupled SAR functions include
(a) Hover hold at selected height above the surface.
(b) Ground speed hold.
(c) Transition down and hover to a waypoint under guidance from the navigation computer.
(d) SAR pattern, transition down, and hover near a target over which the helicopter has flown.
(e) Transition up, climb, and capture a cruise height.
(f) Capture and track SAR search patterns generated by the navigation computer.
(g) Monitor the preselected hover height with automatic increase in collective if the aircraft height drops below the safe minimum height.
A sinister turn considering the MGB oil test failure just before certification of the S-92
Normally, in adopting special conditions, the FAA provides notice and an opportunity for comment before issuing the final special conditions. However, because the delivery date of the Sikorsky model S-92A helicopter is imminent, we find that it is impracticable to provide prior notice because a delay would be contrary to the public interest. The FAA therefore finds that good cause exists for making these special conditions effective upon issuance.