Abstract:
This paper introduces the Bell 412EPI engine and glass cockpit upgrade. Design features of the Pratt and Whitney Canada (P&WC) PT6T-9 Twin Pac® and the Bell BasiX-Pro® Integrated Avionics System are described. The certification approach, aircraft development, and flight testing are discussed. Procedures and flight profiles for Category A takeoffs are shown for three types of surfaces, Ground Level Helipad, Elevated Helipad, and Runway. Example time histories of measured data are presented for Rejected Takeoffs and Completed Takeoff maneuvers. Hover and Category A performance data are shown, and comparisons are made to the baseline Bell 412EP. A fifteen percent increase in hot day takeoff power available results in increased hover capability. New 30-second OEI, 2-minute OEI, and Continuous OEI ratings provide substantial increases in Category A gross weight capability.