High-speed ‘super-chopper’ that races through sky at 260mph could fly from London to Paris in 50 minutes
AIRBUS is working on an experimental super-chopper that flies at breakneck speeds of 260mph.
The Airbus Racer is described as a “high-speed helicopter” – and could slash journey times dramatically.
Flying at its top speed could mean travelling the 213 miles between London and Paris in just 50 minutes.
Typically, helicopters will fly between 75 and 150 miles an hour.
But Airbus’ aerodynamic design makes the Airbus Racer far faster – and potentially even cheaper to run.
The helicopter is said to consume 20% less fuel on journeys while flying faster than a regular helicopter.
Airbus’ Racer (which stands for Rapid and Cost-Effective Rotorcraft) was first unveiled in June 2017.
And it completed its first flight this year, with the prospect of it being used for “high-speed missions” getting closer.
For instance, Airbus says that it could be used for emergency medical services “where the greatest change of saving lives depends on help arriving within the first ‘golden hour’.”
Airbus says it could also be used for search and rescue operations, public service, and commercial transportation.
The Racer has flown several times already this year, including reaching speeds of 260.9mph.
Airbus says that the chopper has completed at least seven flights and nine hours of testing.
“This achievement in such a short space of time is really a testimony to the hard work of our 40 partners in 13 European countries to bring all of this innovation to flight,” said Airbus Helicopters boss Bruno Even.
“On top of its performance, the aircraft’s aerodynamic behavior and stability are promising.
“We are all looking forward to the next phase of flight testing.
“Especially the eco-mode which will enable us to shut down one engine in forward flight, thus reducing fuel consumption, and lowering the CO2 emissions.”
Getting the cost of flying down is a key part of the Racer’s design.
Despite its rapid pace, the Racer is actually meant to be a great way to slash the price of helicopter trips.
“The aim of the Racer is not to go as fast as possible,” said Airbus’ Julien Guitton.
“But to offer enhanced operational capabilities at the right price for missions where speed can really be an asset.
FULL SPEED AHEAD!
How does it go so fast? Here are some of the design features that make it possible according to Airbus...
- A characteristic box-wing designed for aerodynamic efficiency
- A hybrid metallic-composite airframe designed for low weight
- A new high-voltage, direct-current electric generator
- A rear fuselage with an asymmetric cross-section profile, designed to optimise hover performances without penalising the forward and cruise flight phases
“When we ask end users whether high speeds are of interest to them, the answer is invariably ‘yes, but’.
“Speed at any price, without taking into account the economic and environmental impact, is of no interest to anyone.”
Airbus also says that the design of the helicopter is “more comfortable” than a regular chopper.
That’s because the wing is able to take the load off the rotor, which Airbus says reduces vibrations.