Engineering company Marenco Swisshelicopter has unveiled the first prototype of its SKYe SH09, and is preparing to fly the 2,500kg (5,500lb)-class, single-engined helicopter in the first quarter of 2014.
The Mollis, Switzerland-headquartered company unveiled the all-composite SH09 in March 2011, as a competitor to established singles such as the Eurocopter AS350 and AgustaWestland AW119 Koala.
Production is scheduled to begin in 2015.
The Honeywell HTS900-2-powered SH09 has a projected cruise speed of 140kt (260km/h) and a range of 430nm (800km) with standard fuel tanks. Maximum take-off weight with an internal load is targeted at around 2,650kg (5,840lb) – or 2,800kg with an external load.
The modular cabin – which seats up to eight passengers and crew – can be accessed at the rear of the aircraft through clamshell doors. The aircraft is designed for a host of operations including cargo, air ambulance and passenger transportation.
Source: FlightGlobal.com
