Eurocopter unveils its brand-new EC175
Eurocopter is now introducing its 16-passenger civil product to the market via EC175 . The development of the EC175, a joint program with China, is on schedule. In a two-year timeframe, starting from the contract signature on December 5, 2005, followed by the approval of the Preliminary Designed Review on December 5, 2006 and the acceptance of Critical Design Review on December 5, 2007 the design has been frozen. Production of the first prototype is launched. The maiden flight is scheduled for 2009, EASA (European Aviation Safety Agency) type certification is expected for 2011.
EC175 is a multirole medium-twin class helicopter and can fulfill a large scope of highly demanding missions, such as Oil & Gas crew change, long range Search And Rescue, Public Services (Homeland Security & Emergency Medical Services), as well as top-of-the-range business and commercial aviation.
Powered by two Pratt & Whitney PT6C-67E engines with new generation FADEC and to be certified for dual pilot IFR operations, the EC175 features state-of-the-art technologies such as four-axis digital Automatic Flight Control System (AFCS), glass cockpit and avionics suite, a five-bladed Spheriflex main rotor and crashworthy airframe. The EC175 has been designed to have a very low vibration level, with a blade design issued from the EC155’s and EC225’s successful experience. Particular attention is being paid to minimize internal and external noise. The target is to be the quietest in its class, far below the latest ICAO standards.
The EC175’s avionics suite and integrated architecture are based on the EC225’s solution. The four 6×8-inch multi-function LCD displays, plus one optional central mission display, offer ideal ergonomics and symbolizations that are truly pilot-friendly. Advanced caution and warning systems have built-in test functions for fault indication. The four-axis duplex autopilot provides unrivalled precision and stability. Open architecture permits easy connection of navigation sensors.
The EC175’s airframe and fuel system exceed EASA CS29 crashworthiness requirements. In addition to general fail-safe design and fully redundant systems, emergency egress capacity exceeds EASA Type IV certification requirements. Two wide pilot doors, two extra-wide, sliding passenger doors and eight large push-out windows allow 16 passengers and two pilots to leave the aircraft in a matter of seconds. Oversized front and aft emergency floatation devices are permanently “armed” in flight and can be inflated at high speed. The EC175 has Sea State 6 capability with a high helicopter waterline. The risk of capsizing is minimal. Two 12 to 18-pax life rafts can be easily released.
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