Safran Modules & Accessories: How Black Mountain Aviation Keeps Helicopters Mission-Ready

Introduction


Helicopter operators across the Southwest understand one thing: downtime isn’t just inconvenient—it’s costly. Whether you're transporting tourists over the Grand Canyon, conducting emergency medical operations, or working with utility or firefighting fleets, operational readiness is critical. And that readiness starts with dependable, OEM-certified Safran modules and Safran accessories.


At Black Mountain Aviation, a certified FAA Part 145 Repair Station based at Boulder City Municipal Airport (KBVU), we specialize in the maintenance and replacement of Safran engine parts, including Arriel-compatible modules and accessories. Our mission is to keep your aircraft mission-ready, compliant, and safe—no matter the mission.

FAA-certified helicopter maintenance on an AS350 with Safran engine components inside Black Mountain Aviation’s Boulder City hangar

What Are Safran Modules?


Safran modules are the building blocks of Arriel engines, commonly found in aircraft such as the Airbus H125, AS350 B2/B3, and EC130 models. These modules are engineered for modular servicing, meaning each section of the engine can be inspected, serviced, or replaced without needing to overhaul the entire engine.

Here’s a breakdown of the five primary Safran modules:

  • Module 1: Axial Compressor – Initiates air intake and compression.

  • Module 2: Gas Generator Turbine – Powers the compressor through exhaust gases.

  • Module 3: Power Turbine – Converts exhaust gas into mechanical energy.

  • Module 4: Reduction Gearbox – Lowers engine output speed to drive the main rotor.

  • Module 5: Accessories Gearbox – Supports secondary systems like pumps and generators.

This modular architecture reduces time, labor, and cost when performing inspections or part replacements.


Understanding Safran Accessories

Safran accessories support the primary operation of Arriel engines and ensure the seamless functioning of auxiliary systems. Though smaller in size, these components are just as vital as the main engine modules.

Key Safran accessories include:

  • Fuel Control Units (FCUs)

  • Overspeed Drain Valves

  • Start Drain Valves

  • Sensors for temperature, pressure, and RPM

  • Free Wheel Shaft Assemblies

  • Actuators and couplings

Without properly functioning accessories, an aircraft may experience slow startups, inaccurate readings, fuel flow interruptions, or even engine failure.


Why OEM-Certified Parts Matter

At Black Mountain Aviation, we use only OEM-certified Safran engine parts, modules, and accessories. Here’s why that matters:

  • FAA Compliance – All parts are traceable and meet FAA Part 145 requirements.

  • Guaranteed Compatibility – Designed specifically for Arriel 1D1, 2B, 2B1, and 2D engine families.

  • Durability & Performance – OEM parts are built to last under real-world flying conditions.

  • Safety Assurance – OEM accessories include factory testing and documentation.

We never cut corners with aftermarket or questionable components. Every installation comes with full traceability and airworthiness documentation.


Common Part Numbers We Carry

Some of the frequently serviced or stocked Safran engine parts at our Boulder City facility include:

  • 70BM015420 – 1D1 Module 1

  • 70BM035420 – 1D1 Module 3

  • 70BM052000 – 2B Module 5

  • 0292907680 – Free Wheel Shaft Assembly

  • 0164851320 – Fuel Control Unit

  • 0174120180 – Overspeed Drain Valve

  • 0174078030 – Start Drain Valve

These parts are ready for installation, testing, or exchange at our facility or in the field.


Our Process: From Diagnosis to Delivery

At Black Mountain Aviation, your maintenance experience is as important as the components we install. Our FAA-certified process includes:

  1. Initial Inspection – Includes borescope analysis, performance testing, and logbook review.

  2. Part Identification – Cross-reference part numbers, time-before-overhaul (TBO) status, and technical directives.

  3. Safran Module or Accessory Replacement – Install certified OEM parts with full traceability.

  4. Engine Testing & Dynamic Balancing – Ensure performance meets or exceeds standards.

  5. Documentation – Update logbooks, FAA 8130 forms, and inspection reports.

Who We Serve

Black Mountain Aviation supports a wide range of clients in the helicopter community:

  • Tour operators flying AS350 or EC130s over Hoover Dam and Lake Mead

  • Firefighting and search & rescue teams needing rapid engine support

  • Law enforcement agencies flying Airbus H125 helicopters

  • Private fleet managers and aviation companies across the Southwest

  • Government contractors operating under mission-critical deadlines

Whether it's a single aircraft or a multi-platform fleet, we ensure each helicopter receives precise, safety-focused service with rapid turnaround.


Field Service & Regional Reach

Based at Boulder City Municipal Airport, we offer mobile engine diagnostics and repair services across:

  • Las Vegas & Henderson

  • Southern Utah & Northern Arizona

  • Pahrump, Laughlin & Searchlight, NV

  • Lake Havasu & Grand Canyon Region

When your aircraft can’t come to us, we bring certified Safran accessories and Safran modules to you—with no compromise on service or compliance.


Why Black Mountain Aviation?

  • FAA Part 145 Certified (LVBR789X)

  • Over 200 years of combined technician experience

  • Factory-trained A&P mechanics specializing in Arriel platforms

  • Extensive on-site inventory of Safran engine parts

  • Proximity to key operations in Southern Nevada

We don't just install parts—we deliver peace of mind backed by safety, service, and expertise.


Conclusion


When performance, compliance, and speed matter most, trust Black Mountain Aviation for your Safran modules and Safran accessories needs. From modular repairs to certified part replacements, we ensure your helicopter fleet remains mission-ready—on time, every time.


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