A group of investors in the United Arab Emirates is preparing to unveil a full mock-up of a light twin helicopter concept at November's Dubai air show featuring "unique" technology and aimed at market niches not currently well-served by existing aircraft.

One programme representative said "Project Q" will be offered in piston and turbine versions and should be ready to fly in summer 2012. Key selling points, he says, will be price, lift capability and speed of delivery.

The engineering is by partners in an established helicopter producing region, but production will be carried out in the UAE at an initial rate of 20 per year.

Source: Flight International