Onboard Systems factory

About Onboard Systems

More than 30 years ago, Onboard Systems was founded to solve a problem plaguing helicopter operators, who had no way to determine the weight of the external load they were lifting with their hook. Onboard Systems recognized the problem and devised the first of what, in the decades to follow, would be dozens of innovations.

That first system—still in operation today—consisted of a load cell integrated into a cargo hook system, with a cockpit indicator that allowed the pilot to read the load weight. From there, we went on to design many other problem-solving products and systems, eventually expanding our product line to include replacement cargo hooks, complete cargo hook suspension systems, remote cargo hooks, and electronic cargo hook systems.

Today, Onboard Systems serves airframe manufacturers, military forces, and commercial helicopter operators around the world. We are proud to partner with Agusta, Bell, Boeing, Eurocopter, Westland, MD, Kaman Schweizer, and more—manufacturers that choose Onboard Systems for our precision-engineered products and our responsive delivery and service.

Throughout our growth, we've remained true to our founders' vision. We focus solely on the helicopter lift industry. And we remain dedicated to designing innovative, cost-effective solutions to industry problems. You can rely on Onboard Systems to provide significant advantages in performance, safety, and reliability—all backed by the best customer and technical support in the industry.

Why Onboard

We maintain a large inventory of products, spare parts, and complete systems on site, allowing immediate shipment of most items. So while other manufacturers may put you on a waiting list for months, we’re able to ship most equipment the same day it's ordered.