Russian Helicopters’ VR-Technologies has selected Thales’s FlytX touchscreen avionics for its new VRT500 coaxial-rotor, single-engine helicopter. FlytX offers a 40-percent reduction in weight, space, and energy consumption compared to other current avionics suites as well as open-world systems with end-to-end cybersecurity assurance, according to Thales. In the VRT500, the system will incorporate an integrated 15-inch that presents information in a format designed to simplify pilot decision-making. The large-format system can be customized and expanded in concert with mission and technology growth. The VRT500 will be available in eight different configurations including passenger, air freight, search and rescue, and air ambulance.
“Collaboration with Thales on the state-of-the-art helicopter avionics anticipates new markets needs and provides VRT500 with unique solutions based on intuitive, task-oriented, touch interfaces and safety," said VR-Technologies’ managing director, Alexander Okhonko. The VRT500 is expected to make its first flight late this year with certification anticipated in 2023. The helicopter is designed to compete in the same market space as the Bell 505 and Robinson R66. Revised specifications for the six-seat helicopter call for a maximum takeoff weight of 3,640 pounds, maximum payload of 1,610 pounds, and a maximum speed of 130 knots with a range of 465 nm. Power comes from a single Pratt & Whitney Canada PW207V with takeoff power of 600 shp.