10 May 2022
Will microlight helicopters make it to the UK? Small helicopters with a max weight of 600kg are an established category across Europe but not – so far – in the UK.
That could change if the UK CAA approves the Zefhir helicoper, developed and built by Italian company Curti Aerospace. The Zefhir will be shown at the Private Flyer event this weekend by Savback Helicopters, and afterwards at Nottingham Heliport for possible demo flights.
The Zefhir has been designed to meet EASA CS-27 requirements and is fitted with a bespoke whole aircraft parachute.
Nabore Benini of Curti Aerospace said, “The Zefhir offers a unique option – an innovative extra safety feature – a ballistic parachute which deploys in the unlikely event of engine failure or pilot incapacitation. “This makes it the the first and only helicopter in the world with a tried and test parachute.”
Curti Aerospace is based in Italy’s ‘Motor Valley’ within an hour’s drive of Ferrari, Maserati, Lamborghini, Pagani, Dallara and Ducati. “This heritage, outstanding skillset and unique supply chain enabled the birth of this exceptional two-seat helicopter,” added Mr Benini.
The Zefhir is powered by a Czech-made PBS TS100 turboshaft engine with Full Authority Digital Engine Control (FADEC). It delivers maximum power of 180 kW (241 shp), with max continuous power of 105 kW (141 shp),
Savback’s HQ is in Sweden, and led in the UK and Ireland by Stephen Mitchell, who has 25 years’ experience in civil aviation sales. He’s based at Nottingham Heliport.
Mr Mitchell said, “The level of luxury and safety seen in this class of helicopter is a step above every other product for the private owner/pilot in the market to date.”
Following Private Flyer, the Zefhir will be available to view at Nottingham Heliport from 16-20 May, where Curti’s test pilot will be demonstrating the aircraft in-flight.
