Skip to main content

MSA Safety

MSA Safety Launches Lighter A1X WinGrip Vacuum Anchor for Aircraft MRO

MSA Safety Launches Lighter A1X WinGrip Vacuum Anchor for Aircraft MRO

Pittsburgh – September 13, 2026 -- MSA Safety has launched the A1X, a vacuum anchor weighing 7 kg, 35% lighter than its predecessor, designed to speed up fall-protection deployment during aircraft maintenance checks.

Smaller footprint opens access to more aircraft types

The A1X reduces its pad diameter to 350 mm from 480 mm, allowing use on executive jets, private aircraft and smaller commercial planes previously outside the range of MSA's WinGrip technology. The system is approved by Airbus and Boeing, giving maintenance teams clearance to adopt it into standard procedures.

MSA Safety Unveils A1X Vacuum Anchor, Cuts Weight 35% for Jet Maintenance

MSA Safety Unveils A1X Vacuum Anchor, Cuts Weight 35% for Jet Maintenance

Pittsburgh – September 13, 2026 -- MSA Safety has launched the WinGrip A1X vacuum anchor, a fall-protection device for aircraft maintenance that weighs 7kg, 35% lighter than its predecessor, and shrinks its pad diameter from 480mm to 350mm.

Smaller footprint opens new aircraft segments to WinGrip technology

The reduced pad diameter allows the A1X to be deployed on business jets and private aviation aircraft that previously fell outside the scope of MSA's WinGrip system, alongside commercial airliners. The device is approved for use by Airbus and Boeing, positioning it for adoption as standard equipment across major maintenance operations.