PAUL DERBY
Bell Helicopter has opened initial talks with US regional airlines about introducing future tiltrotors, beyond the BA609, to their fleets. A 19-seat ‘619' is next in line for development and is seen as one potential solution to congestion and lack of slots at major hubs, especially in the US.
Bell is likely to launch the 619 next year once first flight of the BA609 is achieved. A wider new technologies plan code-named Maple will see the tiltrotor family widened even further to include a four-seat aircraft.
"We believe in the technology," says chairman Terry Stinson. "The interest from carriers in the US tells us there is a market for a 19-seat aircraft and we will actively pursue that business."
Under its Bell/Agusta joint venture with AgustaWestland, the US company is already working on the AB139 medium twin helicopter and the BA609. Bell says the first two 609 prototypes are nearing completion with prototype 1 due for engine run-up in November and first flight before year end.
The European manufacturer would have first refusal on participation in future tiltrotors up to 19-seats. Above that size Bell would team with Boeing, its partner in the V-22 military tiltrotor.
Meanwhile, Bell heads the queue of contenders to team with EH Industries on production of the EH101 for US military and coastguard applications. The move would be another step towards reducing the number of global rotorcraft players, with Bell already partnering EHI for Canada's Maritime Helicopter Programme.
Boeing, which licensed Westland to produce the AH Mk1 Apache for the British Army, is another option as is Lockheed Martin, which is responsible for integration of Italian and UK EH101 helicopters.
EHI sees a US partner as essential in competing with Sikorsky for requirements such as the US Coast Guard's Deepwater re-equipment programme, the US Navy¹s vertical on-board delivery role and the US Marine Corps¹ future executive transport.
Source: Flight Daily News
