Boat International — January 2018

>> The latest happ ningsintheworldofhelicopters

Airbus Racer

BLADE RUNNERS

Leonardo AW169

Bell 505 Jet Ranger X

>>

Lucky visitors to last June’s Paris Air Show saw

the launch of Airbus’s new high-speed “Racer”

demonstrator, set to be one of the fastest

helicopters with speeds of 250mph. Codenamed

Racer – for Rapid and Cost-Effective Rotorcraft

• and developed as part of the European Union’s
  Clean Sky 2 initiative, the heli combines fixed
  wings with lateral rotors and a main rotor, enabling
  energy efficient lift, propulsion and landing. It has
  an eco mode, an electrically powered start and stop
  mechanismofoneengineinflightforfuelsavings
  and increased range, while its impressive hybrid

Leonardo’s AW169 helicopter is

expanding into new VIP markets.

The versatile twin-engine,

medium-weight helicopter puts

safety first with a crash-resistant

airframe, fuel system and seats. It

has the latest touchscreen avionics

and expansive glass for maximum

visibility, plus one engine inoperative

(OEI) capability. The cabin can carry

five to eight passengers depending on

layout and is as luxurious as any jet.

There are separate cabin-cockpit air

conditioning systems and a wireless

cabin control and entertainment

system. The variable speed main rotor

feature improves efficiency in flight

and keeps noise levels to a minimum.

leonardocompany.com

Bell Helicopters recently announced the entry

into flight of the 505 Jet Ranger X, a lightweight

helicopter that offers speed and manoeuvrability

well suited to tight landing spots. It has a fully

integrated glass flight deck and Garmin G1000H

avionics suite with twin 10.4in LCD screens,

which makes for enjoyable, safe piloting. The

sleek Italian-designed cabin can carry up to

four passengers or be configured for cargo by

removing the quick-disconnect rear cabin seats or

co-pilot seat. The flat floor cabin design and large

rectangular baggage compartment allows for plenty

of onboard luggage. If you’re after something nippy

and practical, it’s a great choice. bellhelicopter.com

metallic-composite airframe is designed for low

weight and cost efficiency. You’ll have to wait; the

first flight takes place in 2020. airbus.com

boatinternational.com

01/2018