StartStick GPU Serves Growing Range of Aircraft with over 2500 Units Delivered

The popular StartStick line of portable ground power units (GPU) has found utilization with a growing range of leading global aircraft models. Aviation Battery Systems (ABS), manufacturer of the StartStick, reports that over the past year, operators of Airbus H145 and H135; Leonardo Helicopters AW139, NH-90, and AW169; Bell 412EPX and 429; as well as some of the most popular business and charter fixed-wing models have all chosen StartStick.

“We’re pleased to assist an ever wider group of aircraft types and operators,” says ABS global business director, Paul Ross, Jr. “Since introduction in 2014, the StartStick has revolutionized ground power unit options for rotary- and fixed-wing clients globally.”

StartStick has additionally seen utilization on a variety of military platforms, including the Boeing CH-47 series; Sikorsky UH-60; Airbus UH-72; the U.S. Navy’s new TH-73A training helicopter; as well as the U.S. Air Force Pilatus U-28A. StartStick also serves aerial applicators, air medical, corporate, fire/utility and airborne law enforcement programs. 

The company has delivered over 2,500 of its rugged, lightweight StartStick GPU units worldwide over the past decade. With weights ranging just 10 to 20 pounds and a compact design, the unit allows ease of field and ramp operations as well as maximum aircraft reliability, with remote starts, database/avionics updates, and compressor washes readily accomplished. StartStick portable power also provides multiple starts of single- and twin-engine helicopters or fixed-wing aircraft before recharge, expanding options for smaller field and remote operations. 

“This cutting-edge approach to power and small size means portability even in a small helicopter or general-aviation fixed-wing aircraft,” says Ross. “These benefits allow ground power anywhere in a flight plan, mitigating a battery failure or for everyday ramp use.”

With StartStick GPU power, aircraft engineers understand starts are cooler and faster, causing less wear on the engine. First starts of the day using StartStick enhance main aircraft battery performance, meaning longer service life and lower aircraft operating cost.

Fixed base operators and aircraft owners traditionally rely on heavy, non-portable wheeled GPUs, slowing operations and restricting flights to fields where this support is available. ABS’ newest offering, the 20 amp-hour StartStick 20, allows ease of field and ramp operations as well as maximum aircraft applicability. Activity with the StartStick 20 over the past year has expanded into fixed-base support. The standard GPU/NATO power port connector supports a range of new and legacy aircraft, and each StartStick comes with an industry-leading comprehensive two-year warranty.

“Meeting the need for modern, effective ground power applications is our unwavering focus at StartStick,” adds Ross. 

Visit StartStick at Booth #1136 during Heli-Expo 2024 in Anaheim, CA, Feb. 27-29.

For more information, visit www.Start-Stick.com