Turbomeca's uprated Arriel 2S2 is to power future Sikorsky S-76 helicopters. Certification is scheduled for the first half of 2005. The Arriel 2S2 provides 6% more power than the 2S1 powering the currentS-76C+ and features dual-channel electronic control. Initial flight tests will be conducted at Turbomeca's CGTM subsidiary at Pau in France.
Source: Flight International
Helicopter operator Avincis has seen its contract with the Spanish government for maritime search and rescue (SAR) services renewed for another five years.
Iraq has become the latest customer for the Airbus Helicopters H225M Caracal, placing an order for a dozen examples of the heavy-twin.
Light rotorcraft maker Robinson Helicopter Company and biotechnology firm United Therapeutics have recently ground-tested an R44 modified with hydrogen fuel cells, and the companies say test flights are imminent.
