Autonomous robot to disinfect Dash 8 Aircraft - De Havilland Canada & Aero HygenX

De Havilland Canada is providing support to Aero HygenX Inc. in the development and marketing of a new version of the autonomous robot, RAY that will be optimized for use on Dash 8 Series aircraft. Designed and manufactured by Aero HygenX in Canada, RAY delivers high-frequency ultraviolet-C (UVC) light to disinfect aircraft cabins between flights. This germicidal wavelength of light destroys up to 99.99% of pathogens -- including the COVID-19 virus. The use of RAY would also reduce the need for frequent chemical-based disinfection that could potentially impact aircraft interior surfaces and sensitive equipment, and also leave residues that may come into contact with passengers and crew. 

“The cabin environmental control systems on our Dash 8 Series aircraft are highly effective in providing safe air quality for passengers during flight, and RAY will be a consistent, sustainable and chemical-free means of disinfecting the cabin air and surfaces between flights,” said Robert Mobilio, Vice President, Engineering and Quality, De Havilland Canada. "Working closely with our engineers and operators of Dash 8 aircraft, Aero HygenX is quickly optimizing RAY’s design to meet the specific size and operational requirements of all models of Dash 8 aircraft. We look forward to offering RAY to operators of Dash 8 aircraft soon.”

"We're excited with the level of support we are receiving from an industry leader like De Havilland Canada," said Arash Mahin, Chief Executive Officer, Aero HygenX. "Operators of Dash 8 Series aircraft will be able to use RAY during their pre-flight disinfection procedures to manage COVID-19 risks and help re-build passenger confidence. We believe RAY will strengthen our invaluable aviation industry and mitigate the impacts of future disease outbreaks."

When optimized for use on Dash 8 Series aircraft, RAY will have a compact body while still delivering the required UVC dosage and 360° coverage throughout the cabin. RAY’s compact profile will also facilitate its use inside lavatories and crew areas. The disinfection procedure within Dash 8 Series aircraft between flights would be completed in under five minutes. Data analysis and reporting will be available via the cloud-based HygenXStream.

More than 155 airlines, leasing companies and other organizations have ordered almost 1,300 Dash 8 aircraft. This worldwide fleet supports diverse airline operating models as low cost carriers, network connectors and point-to-point regional aircraft. The aircraft are also deployed in hybrid passenger-cargo operations and all-cargo operations, and many provide an ideal platform for special mission operations – including fire-fighting, search and rescue, medical evacuation and coastal surveillance.