Technical Innovation in Light Aircraft Aerial Dispersant Application Systems

ABSTRACT Recent changes in legislation within the United Kingdom created pressure for change in the response strategies applicable in the UK offshore environment. To meet the new requirements, innovative technology was required which was capable of speedily delivering a payload of approximately one ton of dispersant. To provide a cost efficient solution, a system was developed capable of being mounted on a non-dedicated aircraft, which can be rapidly adapted to meet the response requirements. This paper describes the design criteria for the system and goes on to detail the development, construction and flight testing programme for the dispersant pods. It then goes on to briefly describe the operational response system which has been established to provide a response for the offshore operators in the United Kingdom Continental Shelf (UKCS). The development represents a significant step forward in providing a low cost, effective solution to changing response requirements using innovative engineering solutio...