During the just concluded HeliExpo 2005 convention, Pratt & Whitney Canada Corp. (P&WC) launched a new generation turboshaft engine, the PW210, offering "best-in-class" performance in the 1,000 SHP class for large single and intermediate/medium twin helicopters.

The first model of the new generation, the PW210S, has been selected by Sikorsky to power its next generation S-76D helicopter targeting corporate, offshore oil, hospital, airline and government operators around the world. "We are extremely pleased to have been selected for this program," said Alain M. Bellemare, President, P&WC. "We look forward to this new opportunity to work with Sikorsky and are delighted to be a part of this exciting new helicopter program."

"The PW210 engine will build on the remarkable success of the PW200 engine family, the most popular turboshaft engine in the new light twin helicopter market," said Keyvan Fard, Vice President, Regional Airline & Turboshaft Engines. "PW200 engines were selected to power more than 75 per cent of new light twin helicopters ordered in 2004 and we intend to build our future growth on this great platform."

The PW210 engine will benefit from P&WC's extensive experience and diverse portfolio of engines in the airline, business, general aviation, military and helicopter markets by leveraging lessons learned and the latest technology demonstrated in such new models as the PW600 engine family for the light jet market.

"Incorporating the latest advances in material and compressor technology, as well as a dual channel, full authority digital electronic control system (FADEC), the PW210 will set a new standard in performance and ease of operation, producing 10 to 20 per cent more power while burning less fuel than today's engines in its class. Furthermore, our advanced technologies enable us to deliver this impressive performance in a compact, light weight package creating a step change improvement in power-to-weight ratio over current engines," noted Mr. Fard. "The result is a 'game-changing', new generation engine for large single and intermediate/medium twin helicopters, and will create a significant opportunity for top-of-the-line light-twins to achieve better performance.

"The PW210 demonstrates P&WC's firm commitment to developing innovative products designed and built to satisfy the customer's ever growing needs and expectations. The PW210 will continue the heritage of the company's extensive experience in successfully bringing products to market. "P&WC has a proven track record in the processes of engine design, development, aircraft integration, certification, maturity demonstration and overall program management," noted Mr. Bellemare "This enables us to produce engines at full maturity level of reliability at entry into service. The PW210S is scheduled for certification in mid-2008."

PW210 operators will enjoy the full backing of P&WC's extensive Global Customer Support Network, ranked No. 1 in the industry for helicopter engine support. P&WC's exceptional aftermarket support includes an impressive world-wide network of field support representatives, factory-based technical support, 24-hour help line for spares and logistics support, dedicated customer training centers, and a network of factory-owned service centers, as well as authorized independent service facilities."

For the last five consecutive years, P&WC has ranked 'Number One' for helicopter engine support in a trade magazine's operator survey," Mr. Fard said. "This reflects our continuous dedication to excellence in all that we do and we intend to grow this legacy with the PW210."

FMI: www.pwc.ca