Originally introduced in the 1960s by Hughes for the American Military, this two-seater trainer has evolved into a very stable, reliable and forgiving aircraft, making it an ideal learning platform. The Schweizer is used for both civil and military applications worldwide and is a very popular choice amongst flying schools.
With a three-bladed, fully articulated rotor head giving excellent autorotative capabilities, we consistently receive very positive feedback from beginners training in this helicopter. Bournemouth Helicopters currently operates the latest Schweizer model, the 300CBi. This aircraft is one of the most versatile training helicopters in the world and has been delivered to many helicopter flying schools nationwide.
Bearing a resemblance to the smaller R22, the piston engine powered four-seat Robinson R44 is much larger and is almost as long as a turbine Bell Jet Ranger.
Additions to our fleet are the hydraulic Robinson R44 Raven and its fuel-injected brother, the Raven II. The R44 can carry up to three passengers, with ample legroom and space, at speeds up to 130mph and a range of over 400 miles.
The R44 has proven to be a very popular helicopter, built at Robinson’s Torrance plant in California, using the simplistic design, construction and operating philosophies behind the design of the R22. With its easy seating layout and ideal concept, the R44 Raven is a great helicopter, not only for training but also touring.
A further step up from an R44. The French built Eurocopter EC120 was launched in 1998 and is a popular turbine helicopter with charter companies and private owners in mainland Europe. It is capable of 710 km in range with cruising speeds of up to 150 mph, comfortably carrying up to 5 people.
The EC120 is the perfect progression for anyone wishing to convert to turbine flying and offers passengers spacious seating and fantastic viewing. With a fully articulated rotor head (similar to the Schweizer 300) it provides superb handling characteristics making it a joy to fly.
The aircraft boasts some unique equipment such as Vehicle and Engine Multifunction Display (VEMD), First Limit Indication (FLI), terrain guidance and auto stabilization.
