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Vertical Aviation Technologies of Sanford, Florida announces the recent completion of development and flight testing of the new Hummingbird 260L.

Two years ago the Hummingbird program went into an extensive modification program to bring the helicopter within reach of F.A.R. 27 and F.A.A. Type Certification.

"The Hummingbird will always be sold as a kit build aircraft but our goal is also to provide a four place certified helicopter as well. Both programs would complement each other very well, for example, parts made under a Production Certification would also be used with the kit build program guaranteeing that level of quality," states Brad Clark, President & C.E.O. of V.A.T.

The Hummingbird 260L includes a new Lycoming powerplant installation. The Lycoming is derated to 250h.p. to extend the overhaul period and incorporates dual silencers for a quiet flight. Other modifications include a new horizontal & vertical tail stabilizer, on/off force gradient with electric cyclic trim, carbon fiber composite components through-out the design, and an improved main rotor blade for increased performance and reduced vibration. The Hummingbird is a four place helicopter that was first sold as a kit starting in 1991. The design is actually a Sikorsky S-52 with many improvements including the nose and windshield. Useful load is 950 lbs., range is 340 miles, cruise speed is 100 m.p.h., cabin comfort and visibility is excellent.

V.A.T. is currently developing a customer training program in order to obtain hull and liability insurance for kit built Hummingbird customers. Hull and liability insurance has been obtained on the company demonstrator aircraft. Now that production has resumed orders are being accepted.

FMI: www.vertical-aviation.com