Schweizer Aircraft has received certification for an increased power rating on its Model 333. The new rating will improve the take-off, hover and climb performance of the light single-turbine helicopter. The increased take-off rating is available as an option on new 333s and is retrofittable to most in-service aircraft.
The upgrade raises the maximum 5min take-off power limit on the Rolls-Royce 250-C20W turboshaft to 280shp (210kW), from 252shp. This increases hover out-of-ground-effect ceiling by as much as 6,000ft (1,830m), says Schweizer. The maximum continuous power output of the derated engine remains unchanged at 232shp.
Schweizer introduced the Model 333 in 2001 as an upgrade of the 330SP and says most 330s have been modified to 333 configuration. Elmira, New York-based Schweizer is to raise output this year, building eight turbine- and almost 40 piston-powered helicopters.
Source: Flight International
