Mon, Aug 05, 2013
The Experimental Helo Looks Like A Loach (OH-6)
By Dave Juwel
Safari Helicopter has developed a new skin that fits over the original existing cabin frame. It is a composite shell with Lexan glass. It offers more interior room and seats 2+1/2.
I talked with Ms. Delane Baker, with CHR International in Marianna, FL, and she stated that many of her customers like the nostalgia of the "Mash" bubble, but many others have been clamoring for a more up-to-date cabin. The picture shows what they came up with.
I asked her if they were going to add a turbine to the new fuselage. She stated that they haven't ruled it out, but they're currently looking for a new reciprocating engine. The cost of the helicopter is certainly within the range of most LSA's, but you can't fly it with a Sport Pilot's license, you need at least a PPL.
EAA has a "Return of the Champions" emphasis at the fly-in, so I had an opportunity to talk with Mr. Tom Murphy, who has the 2009 Grand Champion Helicopter. He is a former airline pilot and loves the difference in flying and satisfaction that a helicopter brings him. Nothing with a cockpit gives you the opportunity to merge with the environment when you're flying like a helicopter does. That's because a helicopter allows you to fly low, slow, and smell the roses. If something interests you, you simply go slower, or hover to a stop, or even land.
In fact, I was told by another Safari pilot that helicopter flying is so addictive, that you don't need drugs to get high. The helicopter gives you a new kind of "high." One with commendable psychological side-effects. And of course, the utilitarian capabilities of a helicopter are legend.
More News
Runway Centerline Lighting Flush centerline lights spaced at 50-foot intervals beginning 75 feet from the landing threshold and extending to within 75 feet of the opposite end of t>[...]
Aero Linx: Air Force Global Strike Command Air Force Global Strike Command, activated August 7, 2009, is a major command with headquarters at Barksdale Air Force Base, Louisiana, i>[...]
Also: Viasat-uAvionix, UL94 Fuel Investigation, AF Materiel Command, NTSB Safety Alert Norges Luftsportforbund chose Aura Aero's little 2-seater in electric trim for their next gli>[...]
Also: USCG Retires MH-65 Dolphins, Irish Aviation Authority, NATCA Warns FAA, Diamond DA42 AD This summer, history enthusiasts will have a unique opportunity to experience World Wa>[...]
Also: Moya Delivery Drone, USMC Drone Pilot, Inversion RAY Reentry Vehicle, RapidFlight UAVOS has recently achieved a significant milestone in public safety and emergency services >[...]