The Challenge

Unreliable engine starting on cold winter mornings in the Canadian North as a result of low battery power.

Our Approach

Our long-time experience with Dash 8s, plus our understanding of aircraft at the component level, helped us design a semi-automatic solution.

The aircraft has two batteries, but only one is used for staring the engine. Our client wanted to tie-in the second battery to make up for the fact that there often wasn’t enough battery power to complete the start.

The Solution

We designed a simple semi-automated solution.  Hold down the PBA, push button annunciator, initiate the start and release. The rest is automatic. The battery drops off once the starter disengages.

The Result

Improved operational efficiency with an aircraft that starts even on the coldest mornings in the Canadian far North.