GEOFF THOMAS
China's embryonic helicopter industry received a shot in the arm at Le Bourget yesterday when China Aviation Industry Corporation II (AVIC) signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with Rolls-Royce to develop jointly a twin-engined version of its indigenous Z-11 helicopter powered by R-R's Model 250 engine. The six-seater Z-11 was certificated by China's CAA this April, clearing the way for use by the country's general aviation (GA) operators. Although Chinese sources claim that the aircraft is locally designed, it clearly resembles the Eurocopter AS350 Ecureil.
Official Chinese sources say that there are fewer than 80 GA helicopters operating in the country, mostly imported, giving an average of 0.06 machines per million people, compared with a world average of 3.9.This lack of domestically produced helicopters is because China's GA community is largely forbidden from using them although the situation is improving and official forecasts suggest a need for 1,800 machines by 2013.The MoU was signed in Rolls-Royce's chalet by R-R president, helicopters, Stuart Mullan and AVIC vice-president Shi Jianzhong.
Relationship
Shi Jianzhong responded by saying: "The Z-11 has been developed by specialist builders Changhe Aircraft Industries, a wholly owned affiliate of AVIC located in Jingdezhen, Jiangxi. It is a 2t class, single-engined light helicopter powered by the locally-built WZ-8D. "In order to meet customer requirements and expand our market share, we are looking further to improve the performance and reliability of the Z-11.
"Adding a second engine to the Z-11 airframe will enable the helicopter to increase both its operating altitude and payload while also enhancing its ‘hot and high' capability. The anticipated date for entry into service is late 2004/early 2005.
Source: Flight Daily News
