LUBOMIR SEDLAK / PRAGUE
Czech aerospace design bureau NA Design is confident of starting production of its NA 40 Bongo composite two-seater light helicopter before the end of the year. The company says that the twin-turboshaft Bongo will be the first Czech-designed helicopter to reach production in 30 years.
An NA 40 demonstrator was built in 1997, since when over 104 design alterations have been made. Another CKr90 million ($2.5 million) will be needed before production can begin, says NA chief designer Jan Námisnák.
Last year NA signed a memorandum of understanding with Moravan Aeroplanes' holding company První Brnenská Strojírna, which will undertake some manufacturing, including the engine, gearbox and control system.
Founder Jaroslav Najman saw a market need for the aircraft in 1992, and the designers are confident that forthcoming European regulations barring single engined helicopters from flying over built-up areas, will fuel demand for the twin-engined Bongo. The NA 40 has a maximum cruising speed of 135kt (250 km/h) with a range of 500km (270nm). With a maximum take-off weight of 950kg (2,090 lb), its rate of climb is 8m/s (26ft/s).
The aircraft is powered by two 86kW (115shp) Czech-made Velka Bites TE50B/55 turboshaft engines, and uses three composite elastomeric rotor blades.
Source: Flight International
