Flightlab is a platform-agnostic flying laboratory exclusively dedicated to maturing new technologies
25 January 2021: Airbus Helicopters recently introduced Flightlab, an agile and efficient test bed to test technologies that could equip Airbus current helicopter range. The Flightlab demonstrator will be used to test the hybrid and electric propulsion technologies and similar such technologies which will reduce helicopter sound levels, improve maintenance and flight safety.
Bruno Even, Airbus Helicopters CEO said, “Investing in the future remains essential, even in times of crisis, especially when those innovations bring added value to our customers by targeting increased safety, reduced pilot workload, and reduced sound levels. Having a dedicated platform to test these new technologies brings the future of flight a step closer and is a clear reflection of our priorities at Airbus Helicopters.”
The initial testing began in April 2020 to measure the helicopter sound levels in urban areas to study how the building affects people’s perception. Later in December tests were conducted to evaluate the Rotor Strike Alerting System (RSAS) aimed at alerting crews about the imminent risk of collision with the main and tail rotors.
This year the tests will include an image-detection solution with cameras to enable low altitude navigation, the viability of a dedicated Health and Usage Monitoring System (HUMS) for light helicopters, and an Engine Back-up System, which will provide emergency electric power in the event of a turbine failure.
Airbus already has several well-known Flightlabs such as the A340 MSN1, used to assess the feasibility of introducing laminar flow wing technology on a large airliner, and the A350 Airspace Explorer used to evaluate connected cabin technologies inflight.
