Airbus Launches Innovative Flightlab Helicopter to Pioneer Future Technologies
Airbus Helicopters has initiated flight evaluations using its Flightlab, a versatile airborne laboratory specifically committed to advancing new technologies. This Flightlab serves as a nimble and effective testing platform to swiftly assess innovations that may eventually enhance Airbus’ existing helicopter fleet, as well as more groundbreaking solutions for future fixed-wing aircraft and (e)VTOL systems.
The company aims to advance the investigation of hybrid and electric propulsion technologies through its Flightlab demonstrator, while also delving into autonomous systems and other advancements designed to decrease helicopter noise levels and enhance maintenance and flight safety.
“Investing in future developments is crucial, even amidst challenges, particularly when these advancements create added value for our clients by focusing on heightened safety, diminished pilot workload, and lower sound levels,” stated Bruno Even, CEO of Airbus Helicopters. “A specialized platform for testing these innovations brings us closer to the future of aviation and clearly showcases our priorities at Airbus Helicopters,” he continued.
Flight evaluations commenced last April when the demonstrator was utilized to assess helicopter noise levels in urban settings and investigate how structures may influence public perception. Initial findings indicate that buildings significantly impact the attenuation or amplification of sound, and these studies will be critical when developing sound modeling and regulatory standards, especially for Urban Air Mobility (UAM) projects. Work continued in December to assess the Rotor Strike Alerting System (RSAS), which is designed to notify crews of the imminent danger of collision with both the main and tail rotors.
This year’s tests will encompass an image-recognition solution utilizing cameras for low-altitude navigation, the feasibility of a dedicated Health and Usage Monitoring System (HUMS) for light helicopters, and an Engine Back-up System, which will supply emergency electric power in the event of a turbine malfunction. Testing on the Flightlab will persist in 2022 to assess a new ergonomic design of intuitive pilot controls aimed at further alleviating pilot workload, applicable to both traditional helicopters and other VTOL formats like UAM.
The Flightlab is a comprehensive Airbus initiative that embodies the company’s commitment to innovation and delivering value to clients. Airbus also operates several renowned Flightlabs, such as the A340 MSN1, which was utilized to explore the feasibility of implementing laminar flow wing technology on large airliners, and the A350 Airspace Explorer, which evaluated connected cabin technologies during flight.
