Thu, Oct 02, 2003
Now Powered by Lycoming
Vertical Aviation Technologies of Sanford, Florida announces the
recent completion of development and flight testing of the new
Hummingbird 260L.
Two years ago the Hummingbird program went into an extensive
modification program to bring the helicopter within reach of F.A.R.
27 and F.A.A. Type Certification.
"The Hummingbird will always be sold
as a kit build aircraft but our goal is also to provide a four
place certified helicopter as well. Both programs would complement
each other very well, for example, parts made under a Production
Certification would also be used with the kit build program
guaranteeing that level of quality," states Brad Clark, President
& C.E.O. of V.A.T.
The Hummingbird 260L includes a new Lycoming powerplant
installation. The Lycoming is derated to 250h.p. to extend the
overhaul period and incorporates dual silencers for a quiet flight.
Other modifications include a new horizontal & vertical tail
stabilizer, on/off force gradient with electric cyclic trim, carbon
fiber composite components through-out the design, and an improved
main rotor blade for increased performance and reduced vibration.
The Hummingbird is a four place helicopter that was first sold as a
kit starting in 1991. The design is actually a Sikorsky S-52 with
many improvements including the nose and windshield. Useful load is
950 lbs., range is 340 miles, cruise speed is 100 m.p.h., cabin
comfort and visibility is excellent.
V.A.T. is currently developing a customer training program in
order to obtain hull and liability insurance for kit built
Hummingbird customers. Hull and liability insurance has been
obtained on the company demonstrator aircraft. Now that production
has resumed orders are being accepted.
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