Story ID: 
Airbus Seeks Greener Helos from PioneerLab Research
By: Mark Huber
Caption: Modified H145 helicopter will feature hybrid propulsion and autonomous systems
Word Count: 211
Airbus has unveiled its PioneerLab twin-engine helicopter technology demonstrator at the German National Aviation Conference in Hamburg. The testbed aircraft is tasked with evaluating technologies specifically dedicated to twin-engine helicopters.
Based on the Airbus Helicopters H145, the company said the helicopter’s flight-test campaign is already underway in Donauwörth, flying with a rotor strike alerting system on board the aircraft and pending testing of an automated takeoff and landing system.
Using a hybrid electric propulsion system and aerodynamic improvements, PioneerLab aims to demonstrate a fuel reduction of up to 30 percent compared to a conventional H145. Airbus will also flight test structural components made from bio-based and recycled materials aimed at reducing the aircraft’s environmental footprint across its life cycle and produce new parts using processes that reduce material and energy consumption and improve recyclability.
Further research will include the integration of the latest digital technologies into the aircraft's flight control system, along with associated sensors to increase autonomy and safety during critical flight phases such as takeoff and landing.
PioneerLab joins Airbus Helicopters’ FlightLabs fleet of rapid-technology testbed aircraft, part of the company's strategy to bring incremental innovation to improve its current products and mature technology for future platforms.