Sat, Dec 22, 2007
H-92 First In Planned Series Of Fly-By-Wire Helos
The first H-92 helicopter to feature fly-by-wire technology has
completed its first successful flight, Sikorsky Aircraft Corp.
announced Friday.
Company representatives tell ANN the historic first flight took
place on December 20 at 0900 from the Sikorsky Development Flight
Center in West Palm Beach, FL. The new fly-by-wire technology is
designed to significantly improve aircraft maneuverability, safety
and effectiveness.
Sikorsky currently has two development programs which will
feature the FBW technology -- the X-2 Technology demonstrator, and
the newest variant of the Black Hawk line, the UH-60M.
"This successful flight of the first H-92 helicopter to feature
state-of-the-art fly-by-wire technology ushers in a new era for the
H-92 product line," said Stephen B. Estill, Sikorsky vice president
& chief marketing officer. "This aircraft was the first of a
new generation of helicopters designed to new and more demanding
standards for safety and reliability, and with fly-by-wire, it sets
course for the path ahead and the next phase of flight testing in
2008."
The fly-by-wire system electronically links the controls inside
the cockpit with the exterior actuators, the movement of which
enable the aircraft to maneuver where and how the pilot
intends.
Eliminating the traditional mechanical linkage saves weight,
reduces maintenance costs, adds capability and improves
performance, according to Sikorsky. The new system was developed in
association with BAE Systems.
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