Features Military Operations
Pegasus bringing kit helicopter to market

April 15, 2008 – Pegasus Helicopter Group Plc  is planning to bring its two-seater helicopters to market via an admission to the UK’s PLUS Market later this month.

Pegasus has developed the PH-200PJ – a kit helicopter that uses pressure jet technology that significantly reduces the number of parts used compared to a conventional helicopter.  Most notably the PH-200PJ has no tail rotor, therefore no tail rotor gear box, tail rotor drive or tail boom.  Likewise, it has no main rotor drive system or complex transmission for the main rotor.  As a result of these simplifications, Pegasus believes its PH-200PJ is dramatically easier to operate – and safer – than conventional designs. 

The PH-200PJ is powered by a 250 Hp Gas Turbine engine and is able to run on a variety of fuels, including jet fuel, diesel, gasoline and kerosene.  Weighing just 800 pounds when empty, it can carry up to 525 pounds in passengers and baggage, with a maximum air speed of 126 mph and a range of 225 miles.  At sea level, the two-seater helicopter has a rate of climb of 2000 fpm and an operating altitude of 18,000 feet. 

PH-200PJ will be sold in kit form to be assembled by the consumer, however the company also plans to offer the product pre-assembled. 

Robert Zummo, CEO of Pegasus Helicopter Group Plc, commented:

“At Pegasus, we have a proven technology that has the potential to transform the consumer helicopter market.  For the first time, helicopters are being brought within the price range of the general consumer market – the PH-200PJ’s mechanical simplicity makes it not only inexpensive to purchase and assemble, but also affordable to operate and maintain.”

The company plans to demonstrate its prototype single-seat pressure jet helicopter at the EEA AirVenture Show in Oshkosh, Wisconsin between 28 July and 3 August 2008.