Flying high with Eurocopter
Top helicopter manufacturer Eurocopter is making a strong statement with the unveiling of two next-generation helicopters geared for the growing markets in the Asia Pacific region during a multi-nation demo tour recently capped in Bangkok. Both the EC175 and the EC145 T2 cater to a wide range of mission capabilities for para-public, medical emergency, military and police requirements. The company is confident it will obtain EASA (European Aviation Safety Agency) certification for the new aircraft early this year.
The EC175 is actually setting new standards in the seven-ton medium class category, recently setting two new climb records of six minutes and 54 seconds for 19,670 feet (6,000 meters), and climbing 9,840 feet (3,000 meters) in just three minutes and 10 seconds during a speed test. Eurocopter officials said the fast-cruise speed and flexible cabin configurations of up to 18 passengers make the EC175 the best performing, most cost effective helicopter in its category, making it perfect for oil and gas airlifts or military applications.
On the other hand, the four-ton EC145 T2 (which is the latest evolution in the EC145/BK117 family) features revolutionary technologies that include the Fenestron tail rotor that significantly reduces noise levels, making it the quietest in its class. The aircraft (which can be configured for one or two pilots) features large sliding doors in the front, rear clamshell doors that make loading easy, and a versatile/spacious cabin that can be configured for VIP transport or even up to 12 passengers.
Both helicopter models can play a major role in military or rescue operations. Obviously, Eurocopter sets no limits as far as innovation and technology is concerned to ensure versatility and passenger safety, which explains why it is now the number one helicopter manufacturer in the world.
