Bell Helicopter has increased the maximum gross weight of its Model 206B-3 JetRanger to make it more competitive in the light helicopter market. The company has received supplemental type certification for a 70kg (150lb) increase in gross weight with internal load.
Take-off at the higher, 1,520kg gross weight requires an initial reduction in airspeed until 70kg of fuel has been consumed. Bell says the upgrade is applicable to most of the 1,700-plus JetRangers in service and consists of a flight manual supplement and revised airspeed placard.
The rise in useful load to 745kg closes the gap between the 206B-3 and Eurocopter's EC120B light helicopter, which has a 755kg useful load. Bell says the higher capability will allow law-enforcement operators to carry an extra person or more equipment without reducing fuel load. Other markets to benefit could include power/ pipeline patrol, air tours and firefighting.
Bell has delivered a fourth Model 407 light single-turbine helicopter to the Delaware State Police. ABC Air, an affiliate of Miami-based Prestige Builders Group, has acquired a Bell 407.Source: Flight International
