Two hundred and fifty-nine miles per hour. That’s how fast the Sikorsky X2 flew during a recent test flight in Florida. The flight broke a record that had stood since 1986 when a Westland Lynx managed 249 mph.
And Sikorsky isn’t done yet.
The X2 is a technology demonstrator aimed at developing helicopters that easily cruise up to double the speed of traditional helicopters. Using a twin rotor design, a pusher prop and numerous aerodynamic improvements, Sikorsky says this type of design could lead to helicopters that are easily capable of even higher cruise speeds.
After setting the helicopter speed record with the 259 mph flight, X2 program manager Jim Kagdis said the helicopter is performing better than expected so far.
“Vibration levels and aircraft performance have continued to meet or exceed our expectations, so we are pleased to report that all systems are ‘go’ in our mission to achieve a 250-knot [288 mph] cruise speed later this year,” he said.
Helicopters traditionally are limited by the complex aerodynamics created with the moving rotor blades losing lift when they are moving backwards relative to the direction of flight. A propeller at the rear of the helicopter allows the X2 pilot to fly at higher speeds while minimizing the problems associated with high speed flight and the main rotors.
Sikorsky believes there is a marketplace for a fast moving helicopter in the military and civilian world. Both markets are interested in faster medical helicopters to reduce response times for transporting patients in and out of remote areas. The company hasn’t released details about plans for a production version of the X2, but has said the technology will find its way into a future model.
