The first prototype of the Turkish Aerospace Industries (TAI) T625 multi-role helicopter successfully performed its first flight on 6th September at TAI facilities in Ankara, Turkey.
The Turkish Aerospace Industries (TAI) T625 multi-role helicopter successfully performed its first flight on 6th September at TAI facilities in Ankara, Turkey. The first prototype of the 6 tonne twin-engine helicopter, completed the maiden flight after extensive ground tests.
During the 20 minutes flight, the aircraft is reported to have performed as expected. The flight included an assessment of the helicopter’s general handling, transmission and rotor systems.
The T625 — shown in mockup form at last year's Paris Air Show — is an outgrowth of the former Turkish Light Utility Helicopter (TLUH) programme.
The 12-passenger machine is designed for IFR and VFR single pilot operations, night operations and flight in known icing conditions. The cabin can be configured to meet the requirements of multi-purpose operations such as cargo, VIP transportation, ambulance, off-shore and search & rescue operations.
The T625 is the first commercial rotorcraft to be powered by CTS800 engines supplied by Rolls-Royce/Honeywell joint venture LHTEC. The CTS800 also powers the TAI T129, an upgraded variant of the A129 Mangusta developed by TAI in partnership with AgustaWestland.