Bell secured the first orders for its newly unveiled Model 210 and Model 427IFR helicopters at Heli-Expo 2004. Eleven 427IFRs were among more than 45 sales orders and purchase agreements signed.
The US manufacturer confirmed its intention to develop a single-pilot instrument flight-rules (IFR) version of the 427 light twin-turbine helicopter, but stopped short of launching the programme as talks continue with Japanese and South Korean partners. Bell plans a formal launch by mid-year, says chief executive Mike Redenbaugh, Certification is planned for the fourth quarter of 2006.
The 427IFR will have a 0.35m (14in) fuselage stretch; uprated 1,100shp (820kW) transmission; and increased 3,180kg (7,000lb) maximum gross weight. The upgraded main rotor and new tailrotor with have variable RPM for reduced noise. Other changes include dual hydraulics and a "third-generation" glass cockpit.
Bell will continue producing the visual flight-rules 427VFR while developing the 427IFR. Redenbaugh says the company may end up producing basic VFR, enhanced VFR and IFR versions of the 427.
Formally launched at the show, the Bell 210 is a remanufactured, civil-certificated UH-1H Huey. Certification is scheduled for early next year, and Redenbaugh says an ex-military UH-1 can be upgraded to a 210 for $3 million. The use of certificated Bell 212 components, improved 1,800shp Honeywell T5317A/B engine and other changes will increase gross weight by 11-18% and reduce direct operating costs by 40%, he says.
Bell plans to compete for the US Army's new requirement for over 300 light utility helicopters by offering to update the service's existing UH-1s to 210 standard.
Source: Flight International
