On June 22nd, 2018, the Zefhir light turbine helicopter successfully completed the first test of its exclusive parachute safety system when the technology was dramatically demonstrated. Zefhir is currently the only civil helicopter equipped with a ballistic parachute. Installed above the main rotor, the parachute is designed as a backup for conditions where autorotation cannot be performed. The landmark test has validated the use of ballistic parachute safety systems in helicopters for the first time. Indeed, such a test has never been filmed or documented in the entire history of aerospace technology.
The two place Zefhir is due to be introduced to the US at Oshkosh this year, and will be powered by a PBS TS100 turbine engine. Long-time aerospace manufacturer, Curti Aerospace, plans to introduce the Zefhir, first as a kit, and then to eventually offer a certificated helicopter thereafter. A 100 mph cruise speed and a max takeoff weight of 1322 pounds allow for a HOGE (Hover Out of Ground Effect) of over 13,000 feet and a max range of either 172 nm or 344 nm (with optional tankage).
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