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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.
