McDonnell Douglas Helicopter System plans to fly the second MD600N single-turbine, no tail-rotor, helicopter in November. Certification and first deliveries are planned for the third quarter of 1996. The second aircraft will represent the final configuration, with six-bladed main rotor, digitally controlled Allison 250-C47 engine and larger fuel tank.
Source: Flight International
Airbus Helicopters and partner PHI Aviation will shortly begin route-proving trials with the former’s H160 medium-twin in the Gulf of Mexico.
Piasecki Aircraft has secured new work for its ‘Heliplex’ facility in Coatesville, Pennsylvania, signing a collaboration agreement with Columbia Helicopters to upgrade Model 107 tandem-rotor helicopters to a new more fuel-efficient standard.
MD Helicopters has promoted Ryan Weeks to the role of president, overseeing the day-to-day operations of the rotorcraft manufacturer.
