Wed, Mar 28, 2007
Plans Underway For European Certification
On the heels of sweeping changes to ownership and management at
RotorWay International announced at last month's Heli-Expo, company
CEO Grant Norwitz tells ANN the kit helicopter manufacturer has now
cast its eyes toward the certified market.
"We see a large opening in the market for a larger two-seat
21st-Century helicopter with a sensible price," Norwitz said
recently.
Over 900 RotorWay helicopters are already flying, and a
comprehensive modernization and technical upgrade program is
underway on the kit side of the organization.
RotorWay is working on the certified helicopter program at its
facility in South Africa -- a location the company says offers
advantages in regulation and privacy, as well as a clear track to
attaining European certification.
"We know there are many steps toward certification, and we know
we are taking only the first step here, today," Norwitz said later
in an interview. "We also know how important it is to take that
first step. We have committed, here and now, to pursuing that
goal."
Changes expected on the certified Rotorway may include more
power, a larger cabin, and more-robust landing gear. A certified
Rotorway would likely include a FADEC engine, which the company
already produces, as well as a glass cockpit option similar to what
is currently available in Rotorway's newest kits.
Rotorway also states a certified helo would incorporate
engineering changes designed to make the machines easier to
maintain, resulting in what the company hopes would be
best-in-class operating expenses.
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