Sikorsky’s X2 TECHNOLOGY demonstrator recently achieved another milestone with the completion of two test flights that included full engagement of the distinctive propeller for the first time.
In one hour of testing conducted in two flights, the aircraft flew at speeds reaching 52 knots in one test and 42 knots with the propeller providing forward thrust in the second flight. The demonstrator is designed to reach speeds of 250 knots – or twice as fast as helicopters can travel today, according to Sikorsky officials.
The demonstrator has accumulated more than three hours of flight time at Sikorsky’s facility in Horseheads, N.Y. The aircraft will relocate to the company’s Development Flight Center in West Palm Beach, Fla., by the end of July for continued test flights leading up to the 250-knot speed record.
For more information: Sikorsky.com
