Plans Underway For European Certification

On the heels of sweeping changes to ownership and management at RotorWay International announced at last month's Heli-Expo, company CEO Grant Norwitz tells ANN the kit helicopter manufacturer has now cast its eyes toward the certified market.

"We see a large opening in the market for a larger two-seat 21st-Century helicopter with a sensible price," Norwitz said recently.

Over 900 RotorWay helicopters are already flying, and a comprehensive modernization and technical upgrade program is underway on the kit side of the organization.

RotorWay is working on the certified helicopter program at its facility in South Africa -- a location the company says offers advantages in regulation and privacy, as well as a clear track to attaining European certification.

"We know there are many steps toward certification, and we know we are taking only the first step here, today," Norwitz said later in an interview. "We also know how important it is to take that first step. We have committed, here and now, to pursuing that goal."

Changes expected on the certified Rotorway may include more power, a larger cabin, and more-robust landing gear. A certified Rotorway would likely include a FADEC engine, which the company already produces, as well as a glass cockpit option similar to what is currently available in Rotorway's newest kits.

Rotorway also states a certified helo would incorporate engineering changes designed to make the machines easier to maintain, resulting in what the company hopes would be best-in-class operating expenses.

FMI: www.rotorway.com