PLACENTIA, CA (March 10th) … McKechnie Aerospace Structures Group is no offering its new Hartwell HA1013 and HA1044 series cockpit decompression security latches to OEMs and airlines internationally. The latches have already been certified for use on all new security doors on Boeing 737, 757, DC-9, and MD80 aircraft as well as on several regional jet models including the entire CRJ series and certain Embraer models. Both series of decompression latches were originally designed to support FAA requirements for secure cockpit door retrofitting for aircraft flying within the US, but the system has drawn increasing interest from non-US OEMs and operators as security issues continue to mount internationally.
The simplest yet most effective safety/security latching system on the market today, the lightweight cockpit latch has passed all required FAA door testing requirements including numerous 300-joule impacts, ballistics and decompression events. The latches, which secure the cockpit from unauthorized entry, including both impact and small arms fire, are also designed to release during a cockpit decompression event at .035 Kg/cm2 (0.5 p.s.i). The designs feature a pneumatically activated system, which, with a reservoir, eliminates the need for venting into the cabin. The latch’s simplicity and extensive prior testing allows for the rapid transition from initial design incorporation to applicable regulation certification.
McKechnie Aerospace has already received PMA approval and supports spares programs with existing customers. The technology is already supported through McKechnie Aerospace’s Aftermarket Group, formed to support its fleet operators and MROs directly with innovative problem solving through OEM, operator, and FAA collaboration.
For more information contact Michael King, King Group. Phone: 1.805.423.3056. E-mail: mking@kinggroup.com
