Pittsburgh – September 15, 2026 -- MSA Safety has launched the A1X, a next-generation WinGrip vacuum anchor that weighs 7 kg -- 35% lighter than its predecessor -- and cuts its diameter to 350 mm from 480 mm, aiming to speed up aircraft maintenance checks.
Redesigned pneumatics double anchoring positions per bottle
The A1X uses vacuum suction technology to create a non-invasive attachment point on aircraft wing surfaces, powered by refillable air or gas cylinders that generate the required negative pressure. A redesigned pneumatic system doubles the number of anchoring positions achievable with a single bottle, reducing how often technicians must carry replacement cylinders during time-critical checks.
Smaller cup diameter extends compatibility to business and private jets
The reduced suction-cup diameter allows the A1X to be used on smaller aircraft previously outside WinGrip's application range, including business jets, private jets and commercial aircraft. The device is approved for use by all major airframe manufacturers, including Airbus and Boeing, allowing maintenance teams to deploy it within standard procedures.
No electronics enables use in fuel-vapor environments
The A1X operates without electronic components, eliminating ignition risk and permitting use during refueling operations. An integrated acoustic alarm system delivers real-time status feedback, and the device maintains seal integrity even if airflow is interrupted. It is fully self-contained in its own air cylinder, requiring no external air supply or fixed infrastructure, and is designed to function reliably from high-altitude facilities to hot and cold climates.
Design targets A- and B-checks where a single technician works alone
For A- and B-checks, the A1X's portability allows one technician to independently attach and reposition an anchor point without overhead lanyard infrastructure or additional personnel. MSA's full-lanyard WinGrip systems remain available for more extensive C- and D-checks requiring multiple workers on the wing simultaneously.
"The Vacuum Anchor A1X was developed based on feedback from those who use WinGrip every day," said Jose Sanchez, Senior Vice President at MSA Safety and President of the EMEA division. "The result is the most powerful and mobile WinGrip anchor we have ever developed -- compatible with a wider range of aircraft types than any previous generation."
Each A1X set ships with two anchor points -- a primary vacuum anchor unit and a secondary "flying" anchor for triangular configurations -- plus a dedicated air cylinder, pressure line and personal protective equipment, customizable to client specifications. The product will be on display at MRO Europe in October 2026, with MSA Safety staff available for demonstrations.