Composite Helicopters will be displaying two aircraft at Heli-Expo 2015. Composite Helicopters/Michael Treadgold Photo
Composite Helicopters has announced plans to certify a series of three helicopter models based on its “EvoStrength” technology: the KC630, KC640, and KC650.
The models will differ by engine. The entry-level KC630 will feature a Rolls-Royce RR300 engine; the mid-range KC640, a Rolls-Royce 250-C20B engine; and the high-powered, high-altitude KC650, a Honeywell LTS101 engine. Two of these will be on display in Orlando, Fla., next month at Heli-Expo 2015 — the KC630, which will be shown in an executive five-seat configuration, and the KC650, which will be displayed in a utility six-seat configuration.
Composite Helicopters has filed the necessary type certificate application with the New Zealand Civil Aviation Authority (CAA). The company hopes to use the certification process to further expand New Zealand’s bilateral airworthiness agreement with the U.S. Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), which would allow for follow-on FAA type certification of the models. Composite Helicopters is anticipating type certification for the KC630 in late 2017, followed by the KC640 and KC650 in 2018.
For those interested in reserving early production slots, Composite Helicopters will be accepting expressions of interest at Heli-Expo at a special show price. Organizations interested in becoming an authorized distributor or service center for the Composite Helicopters product line can also register their interest at Heli-Expo.
For more details about Composite Helicopters and its certification program, look for a feature story in Vertical Show News, available online and on the Heli-Expo show floor beginning at mid-day on Tuesday, March 3.