Airbus Helicopters is integrating an electrical backup system into an H130 demonstrator as part of a research project.

In conjunction with the French Ministry of Transport (DGAC), Thales and Adeneo, the goal is to prove out the use of a hybrid-electric system onboard a single-engine helicopter. First flight is planned for 2020 with the rotor being powered exclusively by the electrical system for up to 30 seconds…

Airbus and the DGAC are hoping that the program, which will get to technological readiness level 6, can ultimately be brought to certification and production. As with the burgeoning air taxi market, the goal of integrating electrification is reducing fuel consumption and lowering noise levels during critical phases of flight in a bid to improve public acceptance.
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