Company Says Demonstrations Confirm Helicopter’s Performance Capabilities

Eurocopter’s EC175 has achieved two time-to-climb records, further validating its performance as the rotorcraft’s flight manual is submitted to the EASA as part of the certification process the company said Monday. These milestones have occurred as Eurocopter targets EASA certification in early 2014, which will be the final step in the program prior to deliveries to the first three customers the same year. In parallel, production ramp-up for the EC175 continues, with the 15th helicopter now on the final assembly line.

“The EC175 confirmed it is the best-performing, most cost-effective and easiest to fly helicopter in its category,” said Laurent Vautherin, head of the EC175 program. “This is a tribute to the teams who have developed the aircraft, as well as the results of our close consultation with the global user community.”

Eurocopter’s two records for the EC175, which have been ratified by the Fédération Aéronautique Internationale, are: time-to-climb to an altitude of 6,000 meters, performed in 6 minutes, 54 seconds; and time-to-climb to 3,000 meters, achieved in 3 minutes 10 seconds.

With designed-in attributes that meet the full range of operating conditions – combined with its speed and range – the EC175 is being marketed for a full range of missions, including airlift duties for oil and gas operators, search and rescue, emergency medical services, public services, VIP and executive transport. Eurocopter says the EC175 has recommended cruise speed of 150 kts, and a maximum cruise speed which exceeds 165 kts. – all achieved at extremely low vibration levels.

The EC175’s power performance includes hover out of ground effect (HOGE) at maximum 7.5-metric-ton take-off weight at 4,500 ft. at ISA+20°C conditions; one engine inoperative (OEI) hover performance, which ensures safety during hosting for search and rescue missions; and extensive power reserve and heli-deck performance (PC1) at maximum take-off weight in ISA+20°C conditions.

The helicopter’s range enables 16 passengers in an oil and gas-configured EC175 to be transported up to distances of 140 mn, with the range approaching 200 naut. mi. when 12 passengers are carried.

(Image provided by Eurocopter)

FMI: www.eurocoper.com