The first flight of Turbomeca’s (Safran) Arrano engine, powering the Airbus Helicopters H160, took place today at the manufacturer’s Marignane plant. The Arrano engine met the performance expected for the first flight, during the flight of the second H160 flight test vehicle (PT2).
Commented program Vice-President Cyrille Ressejac-Duparc, “This first flight test marks a major milestone in the Arrano development program. 2015 was a very busy year for our team; indeed, Turbomeca was selected in February, as exclusive engine supplier for the H160 with a challenging helicopter program schedule to follow. Meeting Airbus Helicopters requirements in terms of performance and schedule remains our highest priority”.
Since its first ground run in February 2014, more than ten test engines have been running at Bordes (France) to demonstrate performance. Major development and certification tests now include a rigorous endurance evaluation campaign. The turbine’s fuel consumption target has already been achieved: data indicates a 10 to 15% reduction compared with current models.
Arrano is positioned at the leading-edge of the new Turbomeca generation of rotorcraft engine. The 1,100 to 1,300 shaft horse-power unit, designed for four-to-six ton helicopters, features an ideal combination of new and proven technologies that allow a significant reduction in direct maintenance and operating costs.
In line with H160 aircraft program schedule, Arrano engine entry-into-service is also scheduled for 2018 and FAA/EASA certification will meet that timetable.
Turbomeca (Safran) is the leading helicopter engine manufacturer and, since its foundation in 1938, has produced over 72,000 turbines. Turbomeca offers the widest range of helicopter engines in the world and has more than 2,500 customers in 155 countries. Turbomeca has 15 sites and operates on each continent, providing its customers with a proximity service through 39 distributors and certified maintenance centers, 18 Repair & Overhaul Centers, and 90 Field Representatives and Field Technicians. Turbomeca subsidiary Microturbo is the leading European manufacturer of turbojet engines for missiles, drones and auxiliary power units.
For more information: www.turbomeca.com and www.safran-group.com.
