Lightweight Turbine Helicopter Meant For Training, Proficiency

By Jennifer Staretorp

A project that began a year ago as an informal discussion between companies at Oshkosh was revealed today in a press conference help by RotorWay International and Rolls-Royce. "Some of you may have heard rumors," began Grant Norwitz, Chairman and CEO of RotorWay International. But it wasn't until today that the secret project was finally revealed.

The new Eagle 300T is outfitted with the Rolls-Royce RR300 lightweight turbine powered engine. The Eagle 300T has a useful load of 1100 pounds, will cruise at 110 knots/127 mph with a ceiling of 13,000 feet. With a fuel capacity of 80 gallons the helicopter will have a flight duration of 2 hours and allows for a 30 minute reserve. The purpose behind the Eagle 300T is to serve a niche market of initial turbine training.

The helicopter makes safe and cost effective training available to professional pilots and allows them to build turbine hours. "It is an ideal match and we are proud to be part a part of it," said Ken Roberts, President of the Rolls-Royce Helicopter Engine Business.

FMI: www.rolls-royce.com, www.rotorway.com