Check-out our updates from Heli-Expo 2014 below:
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The HeliHub.com team have produced the following list of the helicopters at the Heli-Expo 2014 convention in Anaheim, California.
This is a "work in progress" story, which we will update regularly, so please check back if there is a detail here currently incomplete. As news stories emerge relating to particular aircraft, we will annotate the story next to the relevant aircraft.
If you have any updates to this list, please email the HeliHub.com team.
AgustaWestland
I-AWTA SW4 (?)
?????? AW109 () expected
?????? AW119 () expected
N808FG AW139 (31383) Era Helicopters
?????? AW169 () expected
I-AWTH AW189 (49009) Era Helicopters
-noreg- AW609 mockup
Airbus Helicopters
F-WWOV AS332C1e (2864) First AS332C1e for Starlite Aviation
N350ST AS350SD2 (2789) Soloy
N351CH AS350B3 (3537) Classic Helicopters
N425U AS350BA (2422)
N326PD AS350B2 (4555) Anaheim Police
?????? AS350 (?) (green with gold stripes)
N253WC AS355F2 (5206)
N837CS EC135P2+ (1113) Calstar
N822PP EC135T2+ (0823) Massachusetts State Police
N208SH EC130T2 (7644) Sundance Helicopters (fleet number 55)
N130CS EC130T2 (7660) Indiana Helicopters
D-HADW EC145T2 (20002)
-noreg- EC175 mockup
N154EH Bo105 (S-704) Red Bull
Bell Helicopter
N8585F B47J2A (3725)
?????? B47GT6 (?)
N218GH B206B (3470)
N58145 B206B (1170)
N777CX B206B (4264)
N206GH B206L (52112)
N????? B206L4 (?) Air Evac Lifeteam
N214B B214B1 (28039)
N96GU B407 (54399)
N711BE B407 (54394)
N450AM B407 (54435) Air Methods
N407LE B407 (53391)
?????? B407 (?) Eagle 407 red
N429BH B429 (57005)
C-GVZG B429WLG (57150)
N222EX B222 (47043)
-noreg- Bell SLS mockup expected
-noreg- Bell 525 mockup expected
15946 AH-1 (?)
Enstrom
-noreg- Enstrom mockup (look out for announcement...)
N282SH F280FX (2105)
N54FS 480B (5089)
Marenco
HB-ZXA Marenco SKYe SH09 (01)
MD Helicopters
N500MV MD500D (77-0156D) Aerometals
N92BK MD500E (0572E)
N369FF MD530FF (0709FF)
N416M MD600N (RN043)
N902TX MD902 (900-00092) Air Rescue Systems (see HeliHub.com story)
Robinson
N7166G R22 (?)
N200UH R22 (4634) Universal Helicopters
N7166H R44 (?)
N7073T R44 (?) Newscopter
N7166C R66 (?) (real reg covered over)
N951PD R66 (0233) Police role
Sikorsky (inc. Schweizer)
N720BG S76D (761013) Bristow
?????? S92 (?) expected
-noreg- S97 Raider - mockup
N74817/130122 HOS5 ()
N1831A S300CBi (0228)
If you have any updates to this list, please email the HeliHub.com team at news@helihub.com -
Heli-Expo 2014 begins tomorrow.
Follow show developments at HeliHub.com or check this thread for regular updates.Comment
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Welcome to Day 1 of Heli-Expo 2014
We shall be providing regular updates of the latest news from Heli-Expo (being held this year at the Anaheim Convention Centre which is located about 15 miles to the south east of Los Angeles in California).
Heli-Expo News is available on our dedicated Heli-Expo news stream - click here.
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HAI Launches 'Land and Live' Safety Initiative
The Helicopter Association International has launched a major new safety initiative, Land and Live, at Heli-Expo in Anaheim, California.
“The philosophy is simple,” said HAI president Matt Zuccaro. “As I read many helicopter accident reports, had the pilot made a precautionary landing at some point the accident never would have happened.
It’s kind of odd when you think about it, because people in this industry go around telling everyone how wonderful we are because we have vertical lift capability and can land anywhere. And in fact we do on a routine basis. We land on rooftops, corporate headquarters, private residences, ships, piers and in remote areas.”
He continued, “If we are so good at landing anywhere, how come we don’t use that feature when we need it the most–to prevent an accident? If the weather is closing in, if you are unsure of your ability to reach your fueling point, if there is a maintenance sound or an indication on the panel or if the pilot is not feeling well physically, why not just stop that sequence of events?”
Pilot fears of FAA enforcement actions for making precautionary landings are generally unfounded, Zuccaro said. He said the FAA supports the initiative and so do helicopter companies that support safety cultures. “A precautionary safety landing is almost always a viable option,” he concluded.
HAI will be hosting a Land and Live meeting at Heli-Expo today:
The meeting will be held in room 304-A of the Anaheim Convention Centre and will begin at 4:00pm Pacific Standard Time.HAI staff will look at accident examples and demonstrate how a precautionary landing would have broken the accident chain. Pledge cards will be distributed as well as sample language for possible addition to operations manuals or standard operating procedures. A discussion on landing zones will explore risk mitigation for any off-site landing, with special emphasis on site selection during urgent circumstances. Finally, HAI staff will discuss the practicalities of “Land and LIVE”: how it can best be applied to an operation and managed within an operation’s safety management system and just culture.
http://heliexpo.rotor.org/index.php/...land-and-live/Comment
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Upward Curve for Pratt & Whitney
Busy times for helicopter manufacturers bringing new rotorcraft to market are keeping engine maker Pratt & Whitney Canada (P&WC) busy as well.
Among the new turboshafts approaching certification is its PW210A engine for AgustaWestland’s newAW169 twin. At the same time, the PT6C-67E will soon be powering the service entry of the new Airbus Helicopters EC175.
Meanwhile, the PW206B3 turboshaft is close to completing approval for the EC135P3 single being developed by Airbus Helicopters (formerly Eurocopter). The airframer has also turned to P&WC to provide the PW210E engine for the new X4, which is due to replace the ubiquitous AS365/EC155 Dauphin models starting in 2017.
P&WC is also playing a key part in the tiltrotor revolution, with its PT6C-67A engines selected to power the AW609 model that AgustaWestland plans to get certified in 2017. The hybrid aircraft promises to combine the speed of a fixed-wing aircraft with the versatility of a rotorcraft.
“Given our traditional strength in the [helicopter] segment, augmented by our success in leveraging our existing models with new derivatives that boast better fuel consumption and better hot and high performance, we believe the future is very bright,” said P&WC marketing vice president Richard Dussault.
P&WC is marking a quarter century of its PW200 turboshaft family. The first flight was achieved in October 1988 when a PW205B powered the Bo105LS developed by Germany’s Messerschmitt-Bolkow-Blohm (now part of Airbus Helicopters). The 620- to 735-shp PW200 series has since emerged as a mainstay engine choice for light twin helicopters and is well suited to roles such as utility, emergency medical, offshore, corporate, paramilitary and law-enforcement. This year also marks the 30th anniversary of the PT6B-36.
The PW200 features an electronic engine control with full hydro-mechanical backup. Its simple design based on just three major rotating components makes the maintenance workload easier for the operator. According to the manufacturer, its low specific fuel consumption, lightweight materials and compact architecture further enhance its impressive thermodynamic performance.Comment
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Heli-Expo News Bulletin
San Francisco-based Macquarie Rotorcraft Leasing (MRL, Booth No. 7802) have announced at Heli-Expo the purchase of two Sikorsky S-92A helicopters for their growing fleet aimed at supporting operators in the oil-and-gas and search-and-rescue markets.
The two S-92s will be leased back to Avincis subsidiary Bond Offshore Helicopters and will be delivered in the second quarter of 2014.Comment
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AgustaWestland signs deals worth $357 Million
AgustaWestland, a Finmeccanica company, has been awarded contracts totally valued about EUR 260 million [translates today as $357M. Ed] to supply helicopters for both commercial and government applications to customers in various nations including USA, Brazil, UK and Japan.
Contracts, signed during Heli-Expo, held in Anaheim, California, include a total of 24 aircraft such as the AW119Kx, GrandNew, AW139 and AW189, and support and training services. The helicopters will be used for off-shore transport, emergency medical service, search and rescue, firefighting, disaster relief, passenger transport.
Latest technology, operational flexibility, cost/effectiveness and customer-oriented services with a range of solutions supporting the platforms continues to be the right combination of factors to increase the competitiveness of AgustaWestland in the helicopter market which features a large variety of demanding requirements. With these latest contracts, the Company further strengthens its leading position in the international market.
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Heli-Expo News Bulletins
- Technisonic announces the only two-module, Phase II airborne radio with full P25 bandwidth capability
- Kaman Aerospace Soliciting Interest In New K-MAX Production
- Mississippi DPS purchases AS350B3e to consolidate helicopter fleet
- Maverick Helicopters continues fleet upgrade by adding EC130T2s
- AS350 is helicopter of choice for Oklahoma police agencies
- Donaldson receives FAA certification for new inducer filter technology on Bell 407
- NHV orders 6 more EC175s – taking total to 16
- Med-Trans takes delivery of 25th EC135
- CHI Aviation Purchases Two EC175s
- Boston MedFlight continues upgrading fleet with EC145s
- Alaska Department of Public Safety places second AS350B3e into service
- Liberty Helicopters adds two AS350B2s
- Kaman Aerospace establishes new engineering services office in Charleston SC
Check-out these stories (and more) on our Heli-Expo 2014 News Stream.
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Japan – Yamagata Prefecture orders firefighting AW139
AgustaWestland, a Finmeccanica company, and Mitsui Bussan Aerospace are pleased to announce that Yamagata Prefecture Firefighting and Disaster Prevention Agency has chosen the AW139 intermediate twin helicopter to meet its operational requirement following a tender process. The AW139 helicopter is expected to enter service in the second quarter of 2015, replacing an ageing model.
Andrew Symonds, President, AgustaWestland Japan said “The growing success experienced by the AW139 in Japan for so many roles, particularly for public utility applications, confirms that the aircraft is ideal for meeting the many varied operational requirements of agencies throughout the nation. We are convinced the AW139 is well positioned for further success in this important and growing market for AgustaWestland.”
Yamagata Prefecture Firefighting and Disaster Prevention Agency’s AW139 will be fitted with state-of-the-art equipment comprising Bambi bucket, Traffic Collision Avoidance System (TCAS), weather radar, FLIR, Enhanced Ground Proximity Warning System, search light, cargo hook, rescue hoist, snow skids, wire strike protection system and external loudspeakers, to allow it to perform a wide variety of missions.
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Japan – Tottori Prefecture orders firefighting AW139
AgustaWestland, a Finmeccanica company, and Mitsui Bussan Aerospace are pleased to announce that Tottori Prefecture Fire Fighting and Disaster Prevention Agency has chosen the AW139 medium twin helicopter to meet its operational requirement following a tender process. This order further confirms the AW139 outstanding versatility for public utility missions in Japan and Northeast Asia. The AW139 helicopter is expected to enter operational service in the second quarter of 2015, replacing an ageing model.
Andrew Symonds, President, AgustaWestland Japan said “The best selling AW139 has rapidly become the aircraft of choice in its category in Japan for the widest scope of public utility applications, setting standards against which all other similar class models are being measured. It provides the levels of mission versatility, safety, dedicated customized equipment and performance the most demanding operators in Japan require and deserve. We are happy to add one more customer for the AW139 to support the national community.”
Tottori Prefecture Fire Fighting and Disaster Prevention Agency’s AW139 will be fitted with state-of-the-art equipment including both Bambi bucket and belly tank fire fighting systems, Traffic Collision Avoidance System (TCAS), weather radar, FLIR system, search light, cargo hook, rescue hoist, snow skids, wire strike protection system and engine inlet barrier filters to allow it to perform a wide range of operations.
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LCI commits to 14 more AW139s and 4 more AW189s
Lease Corporation International (LCI), the aviation leasing arm of the Libra Group, has announced a further multiyear contract with AgustaWestland for up to a further 18 helicopters worth over US$280 million. The order comprises commitments for up to fourteen AW139 intermediate helicopters and up to an additional four AW189 twin-engine helicopters.
These helicopters, which will be used by LCI’s helicopter division to offer its customers modern aircraft ready for offshore transport, search and rescue, aero-medical transport and other missions, will be delivered between 2014 and 2018, should all options be taken. The total contract, signed in Europe, is valued at over US$280 million and is in addition to the existing $400m contract in existence between the two companies, signed in early 2012, which includes the new twin-engine AW169. The first five AW139s from the existing order were delivered in 2013, with an increased delivery flow from this year and onwards.
Crispin Maunder, Executive Chairman of LCI, commented: “We have great pleasure in strengthening further this partnership with AgustaWestland. Their helicopters are particularly well suited to the market and are proving to be very popular with our lessees for a variety of roles. In particular we are excited about the new super-medium category of helicopters and our endorsement of the AW189 with the follow-on order underscoring our intention to be a major player in this space.”
Daniele Romiti, Chief Executive Officer, AgustaWestland said: “We are very pleased to sign this latest contract with LCI which has become one of the leading helicopter leasing companies since establishing a helicopter division only two years ago. LCI’s order for more AW139 and AW189 helicopters highlights both their and the market’s recognition that AgustaWestland products offer the best combination of performance and operating costs, whilst providing the very latest safety features.”
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Interview with HAI President Matt Zuccaro at Heli-Expo:
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MECAER AVIATION GROUP INTRODUCES BELL 429 “MAGNIFICENT” VVIP INTERIOR
http://www.verticalmag.com/news/arti...t#.Uwy82-OSwnkItaly-based Mecaer Aviation Group (MAG), through its MAG Design Studio, is expanding its collaboration with Bell Helicopter. The company has created a new and innovative VVIP interior concept for the Bell 429 which has been branded the Bell 429 MAGnificent. MAG has successfully introduced renowned Italian style and exquisite craftsmanship into highly- advanced-technology interiors that are fully compliant with the most stringent aviation standards. MAG was also previously selected by Bell for its ‘oil and gas producers’ interior for the Bell 525 Relentless.
On display at MAG’s booth (#6438) is the full scale mockup of its exquisite four-place interior for the Bell 429 featuring SILENS (MAG’s proprietary noise and vibration abatement system). “It truly is a MAGnificent interior,” said Armando Sassoli, co-general manager of MAG. “The design for functionality blends perfectly with superior comfort and style, and we are gratified to have Bell Helicopter recognize our talents. From hand-stitched premium leather seats to state of the art inflight entertainment systems, this helicopter truly is for VVIP passengers.” MAG will also be demonstrating its proprietary in-flight entertainment system “I-FEEL” featuring Wi-Fi connectivity along with its AW169 helicopter VIP interior mock up.
With six completion centers spread across Italy, the United Kingdom, Russia, and the United States, MAG has also extensive experience in oil-and-gas, search-and-rescue, and emergency medical services (EMS) completions, and is displaying an EMS layout for the Airbus Helicopters EC145 at the show.Comment
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Shandong Qi Xiang General Aviation orders one MD500E
MD Helicopters Inc. (MDHI), a Lynn Tilton company and leading manufacturer of commercial, air-rescue, military and law enforcement helicopters, announced today that Shandong Qi Xiang General Aviation Ltd (Qi Xiang GA) and Avion Pacific Ltd (Avion), MD Helicopters’ sales distributer in China, reached an agreement on an order for a new 500E helicopter. The aircraft is scheduled for delivery the second quarter of this year and will be used for agricultural spraying and utility work in the Shandong province, south of Beijing.
Not actual aircraft (Photo: Markus Herzig)
“We are honored that Shandong Qi Xiang General Aviation has selected the MD 500E, signifying our first sale of this renowned aircraft in China,” said Ms. Lynn Tilton, Chief Executive Officer of MDHI. “The versatility and reliability of the MD 500E helicopter will provide Qi Xiang General Aviation with superior performance and safety during demanding conditions often experienced in utility and agricultural missions.”
The MD 500E provides the highest speed, payload and productivity in its class. Additionally, the aircraft’s fully articulated rotor system allows for safer operation and increases operational availability through reduced susceptibility to wind conditions.
“The key features of the MD 500E, including the five-bladed main rotor and Rolls-Royce turbine engine, make it well suited for our company,” said Mr. Liu Haifeng, Director of Board, Qi Xiang GA. “We’re confident this aircraft will further expand our business capabilities.”
The 500E aircraft will be equipped with the latest state-of-the-art technology, including complete dual VHF capability, cargo hook provisions, and comfort windows. The cockpit configuration will feature a fully integrated cockpit with a Garmin suite of transponder, audio and COMM/NAV units. The aircraft will also operate with the standard left hand command which allows room for an extra passenger with the capacity to seat five.
With the proven reliability of the aircraft’s derated turbine engine and superior fail-safe design, the 500E will provide superior performance to Qi Xiang GA for use in agricultural chemical spray applications and power-line survey missions. The sale marks the first market debut in China for the MD 500 series, which is comprised of the 500E, 520N and 530F model helicopters.
Visit MD Helicopters in booth 6922, hall D at the 2014 HELI-EXPO, to meet with product specialists and see the latest advancements in the world’s leading aerial scout fleet.
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For a round-up of news from the first day at Heli-Expo 2014, including:
- Exelis receives $34M contract for key CH-53K components
- MD Helicopters launches new MD530G Scout Attack Helicopter
- MD Helicopters delivers MD500E to Bering Air
- Turbomeca rewards three customers in Nepal
- Guidance Aviation Receives Starr’s Operational Excellence Award at Heli-Expo
- Sikorsky announces S-76D Entry Into Service program
Visit our Heli-Expo News Stream via the link below:
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New AW189 Video released:
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Heli-Expo 2014: Day 2
Welcome to day two of Heli-Expo 2014.
We start with a round-up of Day 1 from Airbus Helicopters:
Bell Short-Light-Single becomes 505 Jet Ranger X
Bell Helicopter, a Textron Inc. (NYSE: TXT) company, revealed today at HELI-Expo 2014 the Bell 505 Jet Ranger XTM – designed to redefine the short light single(SLS) class. Hundreds of attendees gathered at booth 4536 to witness the unveiling of the newest generation of Bell helicopters.
"Bell Helicopter changed the face of the industry nearly 50 years ago with the introduction of the legendary JetRanger,” said John Garrison, CEO of Bell Helicopter. “Today we reveal the Bell 505 Jet Ranger X, the high-performance, high-value aircraft our customers have been asking for in this category. Not only is the Bell 505 competitively priced, it offers a combination of features, capabilities and support customers have come to expect from Bell Helicopter.”
The customer-driven design of the Bell 505 Jet Ranger X places safety, performance and affordability at its forefront, blending proven systems with advanced technology and a sleek, modern design. The Garmin G1000H Integrated Avionics Suite provides pilots critical flight information at a glance to maximize situational awareness. Pilot workload is further reduced by the Turbomeca Arrius 2R engine with dual channel Full Authority Digital Engine Control (FADEC). The Bell 505 features a high inertia rotor system delivering superior auto rotation capabilities. With the ideal combination of speed, range and useful load, the Jet Ranger X is designed to deliver best-in-class performance.
“It’s an exciting time to be at Bell Helicopter, working side-by-side with our customers to create the next generation of vertical lift,” Garrison said. “Throughout our entire planning and development process, we are engaging our customers. They are providing us with actionable insights about how we can improve our products and what they will need for their missions in the coming years. This input has been invaluable in ensuring we deliver the products our customers need to be successful.”
Customers have responded favorably to the new Bell 505 Jet Ranger X, scheduled for first flight late this year. Bell Helicopter has also begun signing letters of intent for the new aircraft at the show. Customers can visithttp://www.bell505.com to select specific models and see pricing options before ordering their aircraft directly online.
The Bell 505 Jet Ranger X is a five-seat, single-engine, turbine helicopter leveraging Bell Helicopter’s proven technology and nearly half a century of experience defining the SLS market with the original Bell JetRanger. With a cruise speed of 125 knots, range of 360 nautical miles and useful load of 1,500 pounds, the Bell 505 is designed to be the safest and easiest aircraft to fly in its category while still remaining affordably priced. The Jet Ranger X is a multi-mission helicopter, designed to meet a wide variety of missions with its fully flat floor, increased cabin volume and clam shell doors that will provide customers the configuration flexibility needed in today's market. It can support a wide variety of operations categories, including the utility segment, corporate and private owners, and training schools.
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On a purely personal note, I think I preferred the lines of the 'original' JRX from 2002!Originally posted by HeliHub News View Post
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Turbomeca CEO pledges full support for Bell 505 Jet Ranger X
Turbomeca, a Safran company, will bring its entire proximity network to bear in supporting customers of Bell Helicopter’s new five-seat, short light single engine helicopter. In a firstever collaboration between the two corporations, the Bell 505 Jet Ranger X will be powered by Turbomeca’s latest Arrius 2R gas turbine.
The Arrius 2R engine delivers performance and power within the 450-550 shaft horsepower class, while improving safety and lowering pilot workload via a Full Authority Dual-channel Engine Control (FADEC). The twin-module engine configuration will reduce fuel consumption and lower the cost of operation. The Arrius 2R offers proven reliability and a 3,000 hour Time-Between-Overhaul at service entry, as well as Turbomeca’s renowned service and support capabilities.
Turbomeca Chairman & CEO Olivier Andriès said, “This is a great moment for Turbomeca and we are proud that the newest member of our Arrius family will power the Bell 505 Jet Ranger X. We believe the 2R provides the right combination of power, performance and value and I pledge our commitment to earning the confidence both of Bell and its worldwide customer base. The development of the engine is on track, the first test bench run is planned for April 2014 and certification is aligned with the helicopter’s development schedule. The engine will be assembled at our Turbomeca USA facility in Dallas (Texas).”
“After 75 years of commitment to the rotorcraft industry, I am honored and delighted that Bell, a company with a high reputation for product quality and support, has selected us as a partner. To respond to operators’ needs, notably to those of small fleet operators, we will triple the number of Certified Maintenance Centers in the next 10 years” More than 3,000 Arrius engines have been sold by Turbomeca, accumulating 6.6 million flight hours for 430 customers in 60 countries.
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Bell reveals 525 Updates
Bell Helicopter, a Textron Inc. (NYSE: TXT) company, continued to set itself apart from the competition at HELI-EXPO 2014 with the latest news of the Bell 525 RelentlessTM, the world’s first fly-by-wire helicopter. As hundreds of attendees gathered at booth 4536 at HELI-EXPO, Bell Helicopter shared recent updates alongside a full-size mockup of the Bell 525 Relentless newly configured for search and rescue (SAR) missions.
“With the Bell 525 Relentless we are delivering a generational shift in pilot situational awareness, maintainability and safety,” said Bell Helicopter President and CEO John L. Garrison. “This new generation is rapidly becoming a reality as we are hitting a number of milestones - including extensive testing in our systems integration lab, the production of thousands of parts and the construction of our 525 assembly facility in Amarillo. Right now, we are on course for the first flight of the Bell 525 late this year with two aircraft already in assembly.”
Highly configurable to a number of mission needs, the Bell 525 Relentless offers game-changing capabilities to customers. The 525 features best-in-class payload range capability to meet customers’ future requirements and best-in-class cabin and cargo volumes coupled with flexible cabin layout options. With wrap-around windscreens for a wide field of view during takeoff, cruise and landing, the Bell 525 Relentless also offers best-in-class crew visibility.
Garrison also spoke to the updated performance specifications based on program progress and testing. Testing is underway in Bell Helicopter’s fully integrated System Integration Lab (SIL), allowing for virtual flight testing of the Bell 525. The result is a mature aircraft able to work through control systems issues and related items well in advance of its first flight later this year. The aircraft is capable of carrying more than 16 passengers for 250 nautical miles and more than 8 passengers for 500 nautical miles.
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Enstrom introduces new two-seat trainer – the TH180
Enstrom Helicopter Corporation is pleased to introduce the newest member of its family, the TH180. Designed as a training helicopter, the TH180 is based on Enstrom’s solid reputation for safety and customer support with additional focus on low operating costs and ease of learning.
“The TH180 is designed with the student in mind. Its rugged frame with robust, energy-absorbing landing gear delivers wide margins of safety during the learning process,” said Bill Taylor, Director of Engineering. “In addition, the high inertia main rotor provides excellent autorotation characteristics and, coupled with the airframe design, contributes to the helicopter's unparalleled stability. The high inertia main rotor blades and articulated hub combine with the unblocked tail rotor to produce amazing controllability and very forgiving handling qualities.”
“The TH180 is also designed for the flight instructor. Mechanical controls provide direct feedback to the pilot, and basic systems prepare the student for a variety of future flying opportunities. With plenty of head and leg room, memory foam seating, and quiet cabin environment, an instructor will experience many hours of quality training and comfort with the student pilot,” said Orlando Alaniz, Director of Sales and Marketing.
Finally, the TH180 will be an economical addition to the training fleet. With few life-limited parts and superb customer and technical support, the TH180 boasts ease of maintenance and low operating costs. Rotor gearboxes are exchanged on an overhaul basis, and over ninety percent of parts are shipped within 24 hours, meaning less time spent on the ground. And its sleek, stylish design is a reflection of good taste.
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New Robinson dealership launched in Baton Rouge, Louisiana
Guidance Louisiana, LLC of Baton Rouge, Louisiana has just launched a new Robinson Helicopter Dealership. On Friday, February 21, 2014, the dealership became official when Chief Pilot, Matt Cavenagh, received delivery of a new 2014 Robinson R66 Helicopter from the Robinson manufacturing facility in Torrance, California.
"Guidance Louisiana will be providing sales and service of the Robinson R66 turbine helicopter and we are looking forward to sharing our knowledge, expertise, and financing options with customers looking to acquire new ships immediately. The popular line of Robinson light helicopters offers both cost effective operation and extremely high reliability," states Matt Cavenagh.
"This is a great time for Baton Rouge, Guidance Louisiana, and helicopter aviation. Jobs are being created in Baton Rouge and helicopter aviation is getting another boost in the great state of Louisiana. Baton Rouge is the gateway to the Gulf of Mexico, home to the busiest helicopter operations in North America. For a helicopter dealership, this is the perfect place to be. We are excited about the latest developments and aircraft upgrades coming from Robinson Helicopters. Robinsons are ideal aircraft with many applications, especially in the helicopter flight training market, " remarks Jason Kidd, Director of Maintenance and Service, Guidance Louisiana.
As announced by Robinson Helicopters on February 07, 2014, "Robinson Helicopter Company is introducing a new line of instrument panels and avionics for the R22, R44, and R66. The new line includes, as optional equipment, Garmin’s GTN 600/700 touch-screen navigators, as well as Aspen Avionics’ Primary Flight Display (PFD) and Multifunction Display (MFD) systems. Garmin’s GTR 225B COM radio, GMA 350H audio panel, GDL 88 universal access transceiver (UAT), and GTX 330ES transponder are also available. Robinson completed FAA flight tests and received approval for most of the new equipment and is in the final stages of certification for a few remaining combinations."
The Guidance Louisiana Dealership is located at the Baton Rouge Metropolitan Airport (KBTR), adjacent to its sister company, Guidance Aviation of Baton Rouge, LA. Guidance Aviation of Baton Rouge provides the aircraft and flight instructors for Baton Rouge Community College's Aviation Technology AAS Degree Program - Helicopters.
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Bolivian Minister of Interior orders two MD530F
MD Helicopters Inc. (MDHI), a Lynn Tilton company and leading manufacturer of commercial, air-rescue, military and law enforcement helicopters, announced that the Bolivian Ministry of the Interior has placed orders for two MD 530F aircraft. The aircraft will be operated by the Bolivian National Police to provide additional airborne security for the Ministry of the Interior. Delivery is scheduled for the second quarter of 2014.
“We are honored that the Bolivian government has selected the MD 530F to support their most demanding police and airborne security missions,” said Ms. Lynn Tilton, Chief Executive Officer of MDHI. “The MD 530F is the finest high-altitude, hot-day performer in the world. We look forward to providing exceptional support to the Bolivian National Police as they expand their airborne fleet with proven MD aircraft.”
MDHI has partnered with Helicopters de Bolivia to establish a service center in Santa Cruz; its opening is to coincide with the aircraft delivery. The MD 530F helicopters delivered to Bolivia will be equipped with the latest technologies to support both safe flight operations and police missions. The aircraft will be utilized during the upcoming G77 World Security conference in Santa Cruz.
Equipped with the 650 shp. Rolls Royce 250-C30 engine and longer main-rotor blades, the MD 530F performs exceptionally well in hot and high conditions. The MD 530F has increased control with its tailboom extended eight inches, and benefits from lengthened tail rotor blades, which provide increased thrust and directional control at high altitudes. The MD 530F's multiple operational capabilities enable greater mission versatility and performance. This dependable aircraft has greater take-off power and significantly higher hover ceiling levels than its competitors, with hover in ground effect capability of 16,000 feet ISA. The MD 530F also retains the family characteristics of speed, agility, low direct operating costs and the ability to operate with ease in confined spaces.
Visit MD Helicopters in booth 6922, hall D at the 2014 HELI-EXPO, to meet with product specialists and see the latest advancements in the world’s leading aerial scout fleet.
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Airbus Helicopters receives additional orders for AS332C1e
Airbus Helicopters today unveiled the latest member of its Super Puma helicopter family: the multi-mission AS332 C1e utility workhorse version, which comes with a standardized equipment definition for more rapid production times and cost-effective acquisition prices.
The unveiling occurred at the 2014 Heli-Expo industry show in Anaheim, California, where the first production AS332 C1e is being displayed in the livery of launch customer Starlight Aviation Group. This helicopter will be received by Starlight Aviation next month, and follows Airbus Helicopters’ delivery of the no. 2 AS332 C1e last week to the operator, which will use it on a utility and medevac contract for EULEX -- the deployment of European Union and civilian resources to Kosovo.
“Having Starlight Aviation’s as the launch customer is a strong endorsement of the AS332 C1e,” explained Airbus Helicopters President Guillaume Faury. “This rotorcraft responds to the need for a robust, modern medium-to-heavy lift helicopter with exceptional performance – and which can be produced rapidly based on a standardized equipment list.”
Starlight Aviation placed its initial order for two of the helicopters in November 2012, and has since firmed up two AS332 C1e options for deliveries this December. These acquisitions are part of Starlight Aviation’s fleet renewal and expansion program, and with the rotorcraft joining an extensive helicopter fleet that currently includes 10 Airbus Helicopters SA330 Pumas.
The AS332 C1e offers versatility across a full range of utility missions, especially in hot-and-high environments, as well as missions requiring a small footprint while delivering a significant lift capability – including the vertical replenishment of ships.
Included in its standard equipment list is the four-axis autopilot and associated automatic flight control system from Airbus Helicopters’ EC225 Super Puma helicopter, which provides flight envelope protection, unrivalled precision, and stability in even the harshest operating conditions. If equipment or systems are required beyond the baseline definition, additional customization can be provided by Airbus Helicopters and its wholly-owned Vector Aerospace company, or the network of subsidiaries and approved partners.
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Airbus Helicopters launches enhanced Super Puma – the EC225e
The new EC225e version of Airbus Helicopters’ workhorse Super Puma product line was formally launched today, offering an enhanced rotorcraft that responds to operators’ requirements for extended-range missions – particularly in support of deep-water oil and gas airlift missions.
Details on the EC225e were outlined at the 2014 Heli-Expo convention in Anaheim, California, along with the first orders.
The twin-engine EC225e has improved capabilities that include more payload, an additional fuel tank for very long range flights, a new cabin layout for improved passenger comfort and new avionics to significantly increase pilots’ situational awareness while reducing workload.
Certification of the EC225e is targeted for late 2015, followed by the delivery start-up in mid-2016.
“We developed the EC225e to meet growing requirements for longer-range flights, while retaining top levels of performance, passenger comfort and operational safety,” explained Airbus Helicopters President Guillaume Faury. “This is particularly valuable for oil and gas missions as the exploration and recovery of energy resources moves further offshore and into deeper waters.”
Turbomeca Makila 2B turboshaft engines on the EC225e will provide enhanced performance and a range-of-action extended to 300 nautical miles with 10 passengers. These powerplants incorporate a new combustion chamber and blades in the high-pressure turbine, enabling the EC225e to take off at its maximum all-up weight in CAT A conditions.
A new seating layout, which was designed in coordination with customers, provides increased comfort for passengers and offers better access.
In the EC225e’s cockpit, the equipment lineup includes a Euronav7 moving map system, automatic identification system (AIS), TCAS2 collision avoidance system, and flight management system. Among the helicopter’s enhanced operational capabilities will be the capability to perform automatic GPS (global positioning system) approaches to oil rigs or airfields that are not equipped with radio navigation means.
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Custom “pay-as-you-fly” support plans offered by Airbus Helicopters
Airbus Helicopters Inc. now offers “pay as you fly” Component Support Programs (CSP) for operators of new and in service helicopters, with flat rate charges that enable aircraft operators to better manage and predict maintenance and operational costs.
During the Heli-Expo 2014, Airbus Helicopters Inc. Support and Services Sales team is offering aggressive new flat per-flight-hour rates for direct maintenance costs. An Airbus Helicopters CSP keeps helicopter operators airborne and conserves the value of the aircraft. Operators that use CSP contracts will receive one monthly invoice based on the number of hours an aircraft is flown.
Airbus Helicopters provide the spare parts required to support your scheduled and unscheduled maintenance events. More importantly, an Airbus Helicopters CSP offers you peace of mind and gives you greater flexibility to drive mission success.
Operators will benefit from the direct support of the Airbus Helicopters factory-trained and supported team that knows the aircraft best. Other benefits include:
- Fewer delays through direct access to parts inventory
- Immediate AOG support, available 24/7
- Global supply chain network support
- Dedicated technical support network
- Personalized maintenance forecasting
An Airbus Helicopters CSP can be tailored to suit any individual operation, with a flexible buy-in. A CSP is available for all EC120, EC130, AS350, AS355, EC135, EC145, EC155, AS365, EC175, AS332 and EC225 models. Coverage is transferable, with the option to withdraw from the program and receive credit for residual equity.
For additional information about these programs helicopters owners and operators should contact one of the following Airbus Helicopters Inc. representatives during Heli-Expo 2014 in Anaheim:
Brian Reid, Director of Commercial Sales, 972-641-5246, Brian.Reid@eurocopterusa.com
Paul Peterson, Senior Manager Customer Service Sales, 972-641-3749, Paul.Peterson@eurocopterusa.com
Jeff Donahue, Manager of After Market sales, 972-641-3735, Jeff.Donahue@eurocopterusa.com
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Venezuela signs for 16 Enstrom 480Bs
Enstrom Helicopter Corporation is pleased to announce they have received a signed contract from the Venezuela Ministry of Defense for 16 training helicopters.
The aircraft will be delivered within the next 18 months and will be used for training by the Venezuelan Air Force and Navy. The contract includes 16 standard model 480B helicopters as well as spare parts and tools, pilot and mechanic training, and in-country technical assistance during the life of the contract. With its solid customer support system and newly expanded facility, Enstrom is ready to meet the challenge.
“We are very excited about this opportunity to provide training helicopters for Venezuela,” said Jerry Mullins, Enstrom CEO. “This is their first helicopter purchase from a U.S. Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM) in more than ten years. We are pleased that the 480B was selected for this training mission.”
Venezuela and Enstrom have a positive history together. The Venezuelan National Guard operates Enstrom helicopters purchased in the 1970s; they expanded their fleet in 2001.
Contract negotiations were coordinated through Helinautica, C.A., which represents Enstrom in Venezuela. Owner of Helinautica, Guillermo Basalo Sucre, was pleased with the final contract. “It’s no surprise that we went with Enstrom, considering the positive experience we’ve had with them,” said Guillermo Basalo, “Excellent product support was a key factor in selecting Enstrom again.”
“All parties are pleased with the final result,” said Orlando Alaniz, Enstrom’s Director of Sales and Marketing. “It was a privilege to work with the Helinautica team and the fine organization at VEXIMCA, the contracting agency for the Venezuela government.”
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Thales Unveils Future Helicopter Cockpit at Heli-Expo
Thales has unveiled its Avionics 2020 new-generation helicopter cockpit at Heli-Expo.
Modeled on the principles behind the ground-breaking Avionics 2020 for fixed wing aircraft presented at the 2013 Paris Air Show, this cockpit represents the new-generation in helicopter avionics.
Avionics 2020 is the result of a number of partnerships, spearheaded by Thales with researchers, scientific institutions and world class experts, aimed at refining knowledge in the field of human machine interface.
These efforts, culminated in a new-generation cockpit founded on natural and direct hands-on interaction, designed to give the pilot all the elements needed to make the right critical decisions at the right time.
The Avionics 2020 concept introduces a modern architecture including multi-touchscreen capabilities, head-down controls, open and
customizable systems and a mission-centric approach, putting the pilot at the center of a helicopter operation.
The very structure of the cockpit favors the integration of future capabilities and functions to optimize and secure a wide range of
helicopter missions, also taking into account specific functionalities driven by civil mission types such as search and rescue or offshore missions as well as military mission types such as tactical, combat or reconnaissance operations.
Key points
- The new-generation in helicopter avionics, Avionics 2020, is founded on the principles of natural and
direct hands-on interaction
- It is an open, mission centric concept, scalable to any type of helicopter, light to heavy, civil to military
- Avionics 2020 includes multi-touchscreen capabilities and the latest technologies in head-down controls
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More Heli-Expo News:
- Sikorsky Introduces S-92 Flight Calculator Application
- Sikorsky S-92 to receive new Rockwell Collins display
- Summit Aviation named Customer Support Center for legacy S76 models
- Developments across GKN Aerospace areas of expertise on show at Heli-Expo
- North Flight Data Systems receives CVR/FDR STC for AS350 and EC130
- Cadorath Aerospace awarded Rolls-Royce M250 FIRST Network Award
Read these and additional news items via our Heli-Expo News Stream.Comment
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