Kit-Built Helo Based On Certified Design

For the very first time, Vertical Aviation Technologies (VAT) will exhibit its four-place Hummingbird kit helicopter on the floor at HAI Heli-Expo 2007.

The Hummingbird is the only four-place helicopter sold in kit form available worldwide, that is based on a FAA certified design.

"It is important to note that the Hummingbird was designed to be a certified helicopter, so this is a real advantage over conventional experimental kits," said Brad Clark, VAT president. "We elected to go after the huge personal use build it yourself market, people not interested in operating commercially. Our customers demand a safe proven personal use helicopter that carrier's four people and they can maintain it themselves."

A recent modification to the Hummingbird is the addition of a composite carbon-fiber upper fairing enclosing the pylon structure. The new addition is being debuted at HAI Heli-Expo for the first time.

The Hummingbird is based on a highly modified Sikorsky design and is powered by a six cylinder 265 hp Lycoming. The kit sells for $138,600; the engine is an additional $31,920.00 if purchased through VAT. The kit includes every component required except, paint, upholstery, radios, and battery and can be assembled in 800 hours. All hardware, instruments, wire harness, switches, etc. are included.

Combined with a fuel burn of 14 gph, VAT says the Hummingbird's operating cost is a low $74.00 per hour.

VAT notes another desirable characteristic of the Hummingbird is its large cabin. Interior width is 58", and flight controls run under the floor so visibility is not impaired by controls running up through the cabin. Large baggage areas are located under the pilot and co-pilot seats.

For engaging the rotor system, the clutch is automatic. A rotorbrake is included to slow the rotor during shut down.

Based at Orlando-Sanford International Airport, VAT has delivered numerous unique designs such as the Winnebago Heli-Camper, Electric powered S-52, and Whisper Jet quiet technology helicopter.

FMI: www.vertical-aviation.com