Bell/Agusta Aerospace (BAAC) has achieved a soaring order backlog that has topped $1 billion and is continuing to add customers for both the AB139 medium twin helicopter and the BA609 civil tiltrotor.
That's the positive message from managing director Lou Bartolotta here at Farnborough.
BAAC has just concluded a series of demonstrations in the UK designed to showcase the AB139 to an important potential community of customers. Bartolotta says 10 aircraft should be delivered this year as part of a programme that now boasts 40 customers and 70 units.
BAAC has three aircraft in pre-production, each involved in envelope expansion. The aircraft is expected to achieve its FAA certification in September following on from the Italian (ENAC) IFR type certification gained last year.
Ceiling
One of the pre-production aircraft will be used to prove operations at a service ceiling of 20,000ft (6,100m), while operating in high temperature conditions is also part of the envelope expansion.
Bartolotta says BAAC is working in parallel on the specific kit required by certain operators, such as a rescue hoist, cargo hook and emergency floatation, alongside 'in the cabin' developments such as TCAS and EGPWS.
"The power reserve available is what really sets the aircraft apart," says Bartolotta. The one engine inoperable ceiling is 9,400ft at ISA +35¡ and the performance even at maximum take-off weight is truly exceptional."
The AB139 has been selected as part of the Lockheed Martin/Northrop Grumman bid for the US Coast Guard's Deepwater programme. Bartolotta recognises that work still needs to done though: "That is a selection, not a contract award, and we know that both Eurocopter and Sikorsky see it as a vital programme. We're delighted to have a new aircraft for that mission."
Components
BAAC has come up with a firm set of figures for customers called the component assurance plan, which covers overhaul and replacement spare parts, covering 14 major aircraft components at a fixed rate of $283 per flight hour.
"We wanted something we could give to people on paper and commit to," explains Bartolotta. "There are so many factors when you talk about direct operating cost. Customers don't like surprises when it comes to cost."
Turning to the BA609, BAAC has a 60-plus aircraft orderbook from 40 customers in 18 countries. Dual European and FAA certification is planned for late 2007 with deliveries following soon after.
When flight testing resumes, the focus will be on the high-speed aeroplane mode through to certification.
Bartolotta says the 609 remains a candidate to perform a training role for the Bell Boeing V-22 Osprey and that the USMC is interested in a "609-like aircraft" for armed escort duties alongside the V-22.
PAUL DERBY
Source: Flight Daily News
