Two EH Industries EH101sare undergoing cold weather climatic trials in Canada and Alaska to extend the type's flight envelope in ice, snow and low temperatures. The Fairbanks-based helicopter has been operating in temperatures ranging from -5°C (23°F) to -32°C, while a second machine, flying from CFB Shearwater, has made icing flights at maximum weight up to 7,000ft (2,130m) and 150kt (280km/h). Trials are due to be completed by March. Canada has ordered 15 Cormorant search-and-rescue versions of the EH101, with the first set to be handed over for training in Italy in October. Transfer to Gander, Canada, is set for February 2001.
Source: Flight International