Bell Boeing's Model 609 civil tilt-rotor is among options being considered by the US Coast Guard as it begins planning its long-term search-and-rescue requirements. The Coast Guard is examining its aviation needs and is expected to award study contracts in 1998.
Bell Boeing has briefed the Coast Guard on the 609, which is scheduled to be certificated in 2001. The team describes the tilt-rotor as the "perfect search-and-rescue aircraft", as it combines the long range and high speed of a fixed-wing turboprop with a helicopter's ability to hover when it is used to pick up survivors.
The Coast Guard is believed to be working on a long-range plan for its aircraft and ships, looking first at the aircraft likely to be available and then at the ships required from which to operate the aircraft. The $8-10 million 609 is designed to compete with current medium-size twin-turbine helicopters such as the Sikorsky S-76 and the Eurocopter Dauphin, already operated by the Coast Guard.
Source: Flight International
