Airbus Helicopters and EASA are working together to bring vertical take-off and landing (VTOL) platforms to fruition, for example focussing on the development of a regulatory framework for them. The two companies have signed a memorandum of cooperation.
“I am very pleased to be joining efforts with EASA to build a common framework for the next generation of vertical lift solutions over the next decades,” said Bruno Even, CEO of Airbus Helicopters. “Innovation that benefits customers is at the heart of Airbus Helicopters’ strategy. We are committed to working hand in hand with the authorities on our innovation projects with the same professional approach that drives the design and certification of our current product range.”
The areas of cooperation covered by the agreement include high-speed flight with the Racer demonstrator, the certification of new piloting assistance systems such as Airbus Helicopters’ Eye for Autonomous Guidance and Landing Extension (EAGLE) technology, the thermal/electrical hybridisation of rotorcraft, including eVTOLs, and condition-based maintenance.
“Partnerships with industry are part of our strategy to ensure that innovation in the aviation market happens safely,” said Patrick Ky, executive director of EASA. “The knowledge we gain from cutting-edge technology plays a significant role in helping us to prepare our certification methodologies for these new advancements. Cooperating on innovation with Airbus Helicopters represents an important contribution to this strategy.”
