Eurocopter X3 hybrid sets new speed record of 430kmh, readies for next search and rescue mission

The Eurocopter X3 hybrid helicopter exceeds its speed challenge: 232 knots (430 km/h.) is attained in level, stabilized flight

Marignane, France, May 16, 2011

Eurocopter’s X3 hybrid helicopter demonstrator has delivered at the promise of pushing the frontiers in rotary-wing aviation by surpassing its original speed target of 220 kts. demonstrating the compound aircraft’s performance, capabilities and maturity.

The X3′s speed milestone was reached on May 12 during stable, level flight – with the hybrid demonstrator maintaining a real airspeed of 232 kts. (430 km./hr.) for several minutes. This occurred during only the third mission after a scheduled upgrade that integrated the X3′s definitive gearboxes, enabling it to function at full power.

“Eurocopter’s teams have again shown their ability to use innovation as a cornerstone of our strategy in remaining the helicopter industry leader,” said Lutz Bertling, Eurocopter’s President & CEO. “Future helicopters incorporating the X3 configuration will offer our customers about 50 percent more cruise speed and range at very affordable costs, therefore defining the way forward for high productivity rotary-wing aircraft.”

Aboard the aircraft were Eurocopter test pilot Hervé Jammayrac and flight test engineer Daniel Semioli “We were impressed by the convenience at which this speed objective was attained,” Jammayrac explained. “The X3 handles extremely well, demonstrating remarkable stability at high speed – inspite of the autopilot off. We’re very happy with this achievement, which ends from the dedicated efforts of all people who have worked at the project.”

Eurocopter began X3 flight testing last September in a program that mixes the wonderful vertical takeoff and landing capabilities of a helicopter with aircraft-type fast cruise speeds of greater than 220 kts. After the X3 achieved the initial true airspeed goal of 180 kts. (333 km./hr.) in November at a discounted level of engine power, the X3 underwent its planned gearbox upgrade and safety inspection.

Since returning to flight last week, the X3 quickly demonstrated its performance at full engine power, including impressive climb and descent rates, in addition to excellent maneuverability, while also confirming the hybrid propulsion system’s outstanding capabilities for acceleration and deceleration.

Inside the test program thus far, the X3′s basic handling characteristics and stability were validated through the aircraft’s flight envelope without the desire of a stability augmentation system, which was confirmed in testing performed with the autopilot disengaged and engaged. Furthermore, the hybrid aircraft has low vibration levels without using passive or active anti-vibration systems, providing flight characteristics corresponding to those of the proper traditional design helicopters currently in service.

The X3 utilizes a Eurocopter Dauphin helicopter airframe equipped with two turboshaft engines that power a five-blade main rotor system and two propellers that are installed on short-span fixed wings. This hybrid configuration creates a complicated transportation system offering the velocity of a turboprop-powered aircraft and the entire hover flight capabilities of a helicopter.

The corporate envisions a variety of utilizations for this idea, including long-distance search and rescue (SAR) missions, coast guard duties, border patrol missions, passenger transport, offshore operations and inter-city shuttle services. It also is perhaps well-tailored for military missions in special forces operations, troop transport, combat SAR and medical evacuation – benefitting from the hybrid aircraft’s combination of better cruise speeds with excellent vertical takeoff/landing performance.

Flight testing of the X3 is being performed from the DGA Flight Test Center in Istres, France. The flight test program will continue throughout 2011 to explore the hybrid helicopter’s full flight envelope and evaluate all the possibilities offered by this new technology.