Wisk Air selects GPMS monitoring system for Bell 412 and 407GXi helicopters

Canadian helicopter operator Wisk Air has selected GPMS International’s Foresight MX health and usage monitoring system (HUMS) for its Bell 412 and Bell 407GXi helicopters.

Based in Thunder Bay, Ontario, Wisk Air provides aerial firefighting, forestry, mining, powerline, and remote-access services. The installation will extend predictive maintenance capabilities across existing aircraft and a recent fleet addition.

Foresight MX uses vibration sensors and predictive analytics to monitor aircraft components and identify potential mechanical deterioration before faults develop.

The system provides automated post-flight data uploads, allowing maintenance personnel to review aircraft health information remotely and assess trends across successive flights.

For helicopters operating away from established maintenance facilities, the technology is intended to help operators plan inspections, arrange replacement parts, and coordinate maintenance without unnecessarily disrupting assignments.

Bell supports the system across several helicopter types, including the 407 and 412, allowing operators that share monitoring data to consult both GPMS and the aircraft manufacturer when assessing maintenance requirements.

Mark Wiskemann, President of Wisk Air, said the manufacturer’s involvement was an important factor in selecting the system, particularly for aircraft deployed far from their home base.

The system also includes rotor track-and-balance monitoring, which can help maintenance teams identify vibration issues and assess adjustments.

GPMS said it would support Wisk Air as the operator introduces the monitoring system into its maintenance program this fall.

Further reading: India’s aviation regulator has cleared the installation of GPMS Foresight MX HUMS on Bell 429 helicopters, expanding its use internationally.