Airwolf Aerospace Secures EASA Approval for True Blue Power® Lithium-Ion Batteries

In a significant advancement for helicopter power solutions, Airwolf Aerospace has received supplemental type certificate (STC) approval from the European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) for the installation of True Blue Power® main ship batteries. This approval adds to an expanding list of international certifications, making lithium-ion battery technology more accessible to helicopter operators worldwide.
The Benefits of Lithium-Ion Batteries in Helicopters

True Blue Power® lithium-ion batteries offer a range of advantages over traditional lead-acid and nickel-cadmium batteries. Their lightweight design, increased efficiency, and extended lifespan make them an ideal choice for operators looking to optimize their aircraft’s performance.

Key benefits of True Blue Power® TB17 and TB20 batteries include:

Weight Reduction: Up to 63% lighter than conventional helicopter batteries, increasing useful payload.
Faster and Cooler Engine Starts: Higher voltage output ensures reliable, powerful starts with less strain on the electrical system.
Rapid Charging: Reaches full charge within 4 to 10 minutes, minimizing downtime between flights.
Extended Lifespan: Average battery life of eight years, significantly reducing replacement frequency.
Reduced Maintenance Requirements: TB17 batteries require maintenance every two years, while TB20 batteries operate on an on-condition basis, eliminating excessive cap checks and NiCad servicing.
Cold Weather Adaptability: Built-in automatic heating system ensures reliability even in extreme cold conditions.

STC Approvals and Expanding International Reach

Airwolf Aerospace has steadily expanded its lithium-ion battery STCs, receiving approvals from multiple international aviation authorities. The latest EASA STCs include:

TB17 (17AH) Batteries – Approved for installation in:
Airbus: H125/AS350, AS355, EC-120, H130/EC130
Bell: 206A/B, 206L/L1/L3/L4
Enstrom: 480B
MD: 369/500
Hiller: UH-12E (FAA, Transport Canada)

TB20 (20AH) Batteries – Approved for installation in:
Airbus: H125/AS350, AS355

The latest EASA approvals follow earlier certifications from the U.S. Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), Transport Canada (TCCA), and Brazil’s National Civil Aviation Agency (ANAC), reinforcing Airwolf Aerospace’s leadership in advanced battery technology.

Enhancing Reliability and Efficiency in Helicopter Operations

With operators increasingly looking to modernize their fleets, the adoption of lithium-ion battery technology presents a substantial improvement in both performance and reliability. The introduction of True Blue Power® TB17 and TB20 batteries into a wider range of helicopter models ensures that more operators can benefit from reduced operational costs, improved efficiency, and greater reliability.
By offering a robust, field-proven power solution with significant performance gains, Airwolf Aerospace continues to drive innovation in helicopter maintenance and power management. As the demand for high-performance, low-maintenance solutions grows, lithium-ion batteries are set to become the standard for next-generation aviation energy systems.