Why put up with sagging blankets on Chinooks?

If you’ve spent time on a Chinook, you’ve most likely experienced the sagging blanket problem - blankets that have pulled free of the airframe and sag from the ceiling and side panels.

Why is it a problem?

Sagging blankets get in the way of the crew, and affect the time and effort it takes to load the aircraft. In addition, when blankets sag, their acoustic and thermal performance suffers. As a consequence, crews have to create a web of 550 cord to hold the blankets in place, which takes time and effort and often blocks access panels.

What’s the source of the problem?

Sagging blankets are the result of outdated systems and technology. The old blankets don’t use the technical textiles available today, and rely on an outdated and inferior attachment system. Because the old blanket set absorbs fluids, it gains weight over time - as much as 80 lbs. or more. That puts a strain on an already weak attachment system to the point that it fails and can no longer keep the panels attached to the airframe.

What’s the solution?

Employing a modernized blanket system that utilizes technical textiles, you can eliminate sagging altogether - and save significant weight while you’re at it. Modernized blankets, such as Cocoon’s ITAB, feature advanced materials that start much lighter and stay much lighter because they don’t absorb fluids, and therefore don’t gain weight.

In addition, the attachment system has been redesigned and updated, keeping the blanket firmly attached to the airframe. At the same time they are highly air-permeable, so moisture can’t build-up behind the blanket to cause mold, mildew, or corrosion.

The learn more about how Cocoon’s ITAB for the Chinook has not only modernized, but revolutionized, aviation blankets, click here for an introductory brief.

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