Olivier Andriès, chief executive of helicopter engine manufacturer Turbomeca, is celebrating after securing a contract to supply its Arrius 2R powerplant on Bell Helicopter's new short light single - the first time the two rotorcraft stalwarts have ever collaborated.

"It means a lot because Bell is a great company and it is recognised for the quality and reliability of its products," says Andriès. "It is a very strong signal from both of us for the marketplace that Bell believes the quality of Turbomeca's support to the end customer has reached a level that they like."

The dual-channel FADEC-equipped Arrius 2R will produce 504shp (376kW) take-off power with 457shp of maximum continuous power. Turbomeca promises 3,000h between overhauls and points to its two-piece modular construction as aiding easy maintenance.

Bell chief executive John Garrison explains its decision to specify the Arrius on its new platform. "They have the right engine for this class of helicopter," he says. "They have also worked hard to improve their global service and support, which will be needed as it's going to be a global helicopter."

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Source: Flight Daily News

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