Curtiss-Wright Controls Innovative Alert System Solves Inadvertent Aircraft Slide Deployment

(Charlotte, NC., January 28, 2009) -- Curtiss-Wright Controls, Inc. announced today that it has developed a solution for inadvertent aircraft slide deployment. The Curtiss-Wright Controls Integrated Sensing SmartHandle(r) is an audible alert system designed to fit any aircraft door and assist in the prevention of unintentional rollout of an emergency slide.

The SmartHandle can be installed as a retrofit on existing aircraft or directly on to the airframe at the production line. It is available as a stand-alone, self-powered unit fitted to each aircraft door, working autonomously, or as an integral part of the aircraft in cohesion with existing door systems. The SmartHandle has the capability to be programmed to issue an audible alert in any language using a female or male voice.

"Inadvertent slide deployment has emerged as a problem within the aviation industry since the passenger entry/exit door has been used as a means of escape in the event of an emergency evacuation," said David Adams, co-chief operating officer of Curtiss-Wright Corporation. "Curtiss-Wright Controls SmartHandle provides a practical solution that solves inadvertent slide deployments and substantially reduces the financial and human cost associated with such occurrences."

Source : Curtiss-Wright Corporation (NYSE: CW)