AIRBUS HELICOPTERS UNVEILS PIONEERLAB

Airbus Helicopters has unveiled the PioneerLab, its new twin-engine technology demonstrator based on the H145 platform.

Launched during the German National Aviation Conference in Hamburg, the PioneerLab aims to demonstrate a fuel reduction of up to 30% compared to a conventional H145, thanks to a hybrid electric propulsion system and aerodynamic improvements.

The demonstrator also includes flight-test structural components made from bio-based and recycled materials, which aim to reduce the environmental footprint across the entire aircraft life cycle. Also, Airbus Helicopters intends to produce the new parts using processes that reduce material and energy consumption and improve recyclability “With PioneerLab, we continue our ambitious strategy to test and mature new technologies on board our helicopter demonstrators,” concludes Tomasz Krysinski, Head of Research and Innovation Programmes at Airbus Helicopters. “PioneerLab, which is based at our Donauwörth site, will be our platform to test technologies specifically dedicated to twin-engine helicopters.”