The British Disabled Flying Association (BDFA) has recently purchased the new Ergos hoist from Smartlift and it is proving to be a real success. It is a completely mobile unit that can move pilots of up to 40 stone (250kg) without any additional manual handling input. Unlike existing hoists, the Ergos has a long lifting range which can lift pilots from their wheelchair with greater smoothness, comfort and security and lower them into the cockpit without any other manual support.
“It is an amazing piece of equipment which has enabled the BDFA to get many more people flying,” enthuses Simon Rapkin, glider pilot and chairman of the BDFA. “It is very simple to use, very safe and stable and we are delighted to be able to offer trial flights and flight training to people who otherwise would not be able to get into an aircraft.”
The ERGOS hoist used by the BDFA can be used by pilots without any assistance. The harness is self-fitted whilst the pilot is sitting in the wheelchair, then the hoist is operated via remote control by pushing buttons to lift the user from their wheelchair, over the wing and lowered into the aircraft. The hoist can then be moved away from the aircraft by the pilot before they start up their engine.
The cost of a fully remote controlled Ergos hoist is £9,600, including a five year warranty, six monthly servicing and LOLER certification. Payment and leasing arrangements can be organised.
