Hill Helicopters, a UK-based firm, has unveiled a radical new helicopter concept that it claims will revolutionize the industry. Dubbed the HX50 helicopter, it promises to set new boundaries in safety, performance, comfort and elegance.
The five-seat, turbine-powered, 500-horsepower rotorcraft has been designed from the ground up by a team of highly-skilled engineers led by renowned aeronautics expert Dr. Jason Hill. It fuses state-of-the-art performance with ultra-modern design to bring science fiction into reality. Currently in the advanced design phase, with three prototypes scheduled to begin flight testing in 2022, the final design is expected to reach cruising speeds of around 140kts at up to 10,000 feet altitude. The first commercial deliveries are anticipated to take place in 2023.
“The helicopter industry has long awaited an Elon Musk-style disruption that redefines the modern helicopter. The wait is over,” said Hill, founder and CEO of Hill Helicopters. “The only way to create something that is truly groundbreaking is to design from the ground up, giving equal focus to aerospace design, performance, and safety as well as to the artistic and experiential aspects, including comfort, ergonomics, intuitive technology, and luxury. The HX50 brings all of this together to deliver a truly unique aircraft and experience.”
The cabin will sit five people – with one pilot and four passengers. The exterior design suggests a composite structure with a three-blade primary rotor and an encased tail rotor. The landing gear appears to be retractable, while the glasshouse is big enough to give an unhindered view of the outside. The chopper will be powered by a 500shp (372kW) turboshaft engine and will be able to carry a max payload of 1,760 lbs.
Source: Elite Traveler