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| Auroa Helicopters showcased its new two-seat, carbon-fiber helicopter at AirVenture. (photos by Marino Boric) |
By Marino Boric, EAA European Correspondent
New technology and aircraft designs are among AirVenture's stand-out characteristics and 2012 has brought several,
including an all-new helicopter from the Land of the Long White Cloud.
Auroa Helicopters Ltd. has spent four years and the combined efforts of a 15-man team of design, engineering,
manufacturing, and systems specialists in development of a new a turbine-powered, carbon-fiber-composite, two-seat
helicopter with diverse mission potential - recreational, instructional, and personal flight, such as commuting.
The craft is manufactured to FAR 27 standards with full certification Auroa's goal.
Flight testing has been completed on three prototypes to date with the manufacturing process of the Auroa
helicopter in full swing.
Auroa plans to offer the helicopter in a variety of formats.
It will be sold as fully assembled or kit in the experimental class in the U.S. In some other countries, however,
the Auroa will be in some alternative categories.
The purchase price includes New Zealand-based basic gas turbine and maintenance training, plus transition training
for certificated commercial and private pilots.
According to Auroa, interest at this AirVenture has been huge with 45 customers signed up so far.
A dealer network is in this moment being built up in a range of countries. All interested are invited to visit the
company's stand, located in the New Zealand pavilion between the control tower and the main air show runway.
Some Auroa specifications:
Empty weight: 660 pounds
Maximum weight: 1,320 pounds
Fuel: two-hour endurance
Powerplant: 160-hp Solar T62 turboshaft with FADEC controller and data download for engine history
Cockpit: Glass with VHF transceiver, transponder, ELT, and adjustable tail rotor pedals.
For more information on Auroa Helicopters Ltd. New Zealand, visit www.AuroaHelicopters.co.nz.
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