The heat is on the Bell Helicopter 429, thanks to an STC issued to Tanis Aircraft Products for a complete heli-preheat system for the light twin-engine helicopter.

Tanis president and CEO Doug Evink said the new system is capable of heat-soaking a cold engine to 60 degrees above ambient temperature in six hours. The preheater consists of heating elements bonded to the engine, main rotor gearbox, accessory gear box, tail rotor gear box, fuel unit, hydraulic tanks and oil coolers. The system adds between six and seven pounds to the aircraft and requires a new weight and balance calculation as part of the STC.

“Tanis stands for the most technologically advanced preheat systems,” Evink added. “A Tanis system is the only solution to provide heat to all critical helicopter components. We are excited to be supporting the Bell 429 by contributing to safe operations and prolonged life of helicopter components.”

Tanis (Booth No. N5608) received the STC in November 2012. The new system is available on a request-to-build basis from Tanis through Bell Helicopter subsidiary Aeronautical Accessories.