First Three Of 16 480Bs Completed

The first three of a contracted sixteen 480B advanced turbine training helicopters for the Royal Thai Army have been completed at the Enstrom factory. The aircraft have been equipped with a number of advanced features, including NVG compatible cockpits, Chelton EFIS systems, and dual Wulfsberg RT-5000 tactical radio systems.

"These represent some of the most advanced aircraft we have built to date," commented Enstrom's Director of Engineering, Bill Taylor. "That we were able to get them engineered and into production so quickly is a testament to our team in Menominee, and our support from the FAA's Chicago Aircraft Certification Office. The Royal Thai Army is going to have some very capable helicopters."

The 480B was selected in a competitive bidding process that included aircraft from 7 different major manufacturers.  Aircrew and maintenance personnel training is scheduled to begin in March, with aircraft deliveries following soon after.

Enstrom is represented in Asia by Blake & DeJong Ltd., and in Thailand by M-Landarch Inc.

FMI: www.enstromhelicopter.com, www.m-landarch.com