Sikorsky [UTX] Dec. 26 announced the first H-92 helicopter featuring fly-by-wire (FBW) technology completed its first successful flight Dec. 20 at the Sikorsky Development Flight Center in West Palm Beach, Fla.
“This successful flight of the first H-92 helicopter to feature state-of-the-art fly-by-wire technology ushers in a new era for the H-92 product line,” Stephen Estill, Sikorsky vice president and chief marketing officer, said in a statement. “This aircraft was the first of a new generation of helicopters designed to new and more demanding standards for safety and reliability, and with fly-by-wire, it sets course for the path ahead and the next phase of flight testing in 2008.”
The new fly-by-wire technology is to significantly improve aircraft maneuverability, safety and effectiveness, the company said in a statement.
Sikorsky has two development programs which will feature the FBW technology, the X-2 Technology(TM) demonstrator, and the newest model of the Black Hawk helicopter, the UH- 60M.
The fly-by-wire system electronically links the controls inside the cockpit with the exterior actuators. Moving the actuators allows the aircraft to maneuver where and how the pilot wants. Eliminating the traditional mechanical linkage saves weight, reduces maintenance costs, adds capability and improves performance, the company said. The new system was developed in association with BAE SYSTEMS.