Eurocopter has successfully tested a new safety feature on an AS350 helicopter that combines a regular turboshaft powerplant with an electric motor that will provide power to the rotors in the event of a main engine failure, enabling a safer autorotation landing.
The demonstrator helicopter is a production version of Eurocopter's light single-engine AS350, which has been equipped with a supplementary electric motor.
In the event of an engine failure, the electric motor provides power to the rotor, allowing the pilot greater control of the aircraft during descent.
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The airframer is now studying how to bring the concept to maturity and implement it on its production aircraft.
"Eurocopter's research and development efforts are used every day to push the frontiers by increasing helicopter safety and performance for the benefit of our customers, and we are proud to have brought the first helicopter equipped with an internal combustion engine and electric propulsion system to flight," said Lutz Bertling, Eurocopter president and chief executive.
Hybrid power has the potential to cut fuel consumption in the future, he said.
The AS350 hybrid demonstrator has its electric motor and lithium ion polymer battery installed in the centre area of the helicopter.
Source: Flight International
