Columbia partners with Piasecki to enhance Model 107 helicopters

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Columbia partners with Piasecki to enhance Model 107 helicopters

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Aviation International News | Aviation International News

By Sky Industry News

Jul 2, 2024

Columbia Helicopters is collaborating with Piasecki Aircraft to enhance the capabilities of Model 107-II helicopters. The joint effort aims to improve fuel efficiency, power, and reliability, resulting in the new Columbia CHI-107-III model.

The upgrade involves installing General Electric CT-58 turboshafts that provide 25% more power compared to the current T-58 engines. Additional modifications include a glass cockpit, an advanced autopilot system, a new rotor system requiring less maintenance, a health monitoring system, and an extended-range fuel system. Specific performance improvements have yet to be disclosed.

Columbia holds the former Boeing type and production certificates for the helicopter and will oversee the project. The modifications will take place at Piasecki's facility in Coatesville, Pennsylvania, previously used by Sikorsky for S-76 and S-92 helicopter production. Columbia will also use this facility to support customers on the U.S. East Coast.

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The upgraded Model 107-II is expected to serve well in operations such as emergency response, aerial firefighting, forestry, and infrastructure work. Its military counterpart is the CH-46E Sea Knight used by various armed forces including those of Sweden and Japan.

David Balevic, CEO of Columbia Helicopters stated: “The new Columbia Model 107-II will transform the heavy-lift helicopter market, providing unrivaled performance and versatility for our customers.” He emphasized their commitment to innovation alongside Piasecki.

Columbia offers OEM-level support for both Model 107-II and CH-46 helicopters while holding FAA commercial type certificates for other rotorcraft models like the Columbia Model 234 Chinook.