Turbomeca Arrano Engine Powered H160 Helicopter Completes First Flight Test

Turbomeca (Safran) completed the first flight test of its Arrano engine, powering the Airbus Helicopters H160.

The Arrano engine met the performance expected for the first flight, during the flight of the second H160 flight test vehicle (PT2), which took place yesterday at the manufacturer’s Marignane plant.

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.