Airbus Helicopters debuted an eco-friendly helicopter this week that the company says will reduce noise whilst burning less fuel than traditional models.
According to Airbus, the Bluecopter has logged over 28 hours in testing, which confirmed the feasibility of advancements in eco-friendly helicopter design, proving the company’s next-generation eco-efficient technologies.
“By bringing together the best of our company’s innovation, we are opening the way for a new generation of rotorcraft that will have lower noise levels, burn less fuel and are more efficient to operate,” explained Marius Bebesel, Program Manager Research & Innovation in charge of the Bluecopter demonstrator.
“With Bluecopter, we have met our goals of decreasing fuel consumption by as much as 40%, significantly reducing CO2 emissions, and lowering noise to approximately 10 decibel effective perceived noise (EPNdB) below ICAO noise certification limits, while raising the maximum payload and the passenger comfort.”
To achieve the ambitious CO2 reduction targets, the Bluecopter can be switched to an “eco-mode” in the cruise by shutting off one engine. The remaining engine operates more efficiently and the fuel consumption is drastically reduced. The “eco mode” is based on an automatic control system.
Other enhancements that Airbus says contribute to the Bluecopter's efficiency include the Fenestron shrouded tail and active rudder, a five-blade bearingless main rotor with increased diameter and reduced tip speed, and a fairing over the rotor hub.
The Bluecopter is a product of a "skunk-works" project self-funded by Airbus.