Mitsubishi MH2000

The Mitsubishi MH 2000 is a 7/12 seat light utility helicopter. Low levels of interest in the aircraft forced Mitsubishi to halt sales of MH2000 in September 2004.

The MH2000 is Japan's first indigenous helicopter with Mitsubishi Heavy Industries (MHI) having solely developed and manufactured the aircraft body and engine. In the development of the MH2000, MHI has thoroughly pursued the goals of safety, economy and low-noise levels. The program was launched in 1995 for creation of a craft that could fulfill a variety of missions, include passenger and business transport, law enforcement, search and rescue and emergency medical services.

The first of four developmental aircraft first flew on 29 July 1996, the second flying later that year and the remiaining two used for ground test duties. The MH2000 has its engine module and dynamic system positioned behind the cabin section to keep the sound level in the passenger compartment to a minimum. Power is provided by a pair of Mitsubishi MG5-100 turboshafts.

The first production model were delivered on October 1st 2000 to Excel air service in Japan. Loss of one prototype due to tail rotor blade separation led to suspension of type certificate and redesign of tail rotor. Delivered craft were modified with the new rotor and all further craft will have the modifications installed.

Specifications

Length: 12.2 m

Height: 4.1 m

Width (fuselage): 3.2 m

Empty Weight: 2,500 kg

Maximum Take-off Weight: 4,500 kg

Maximum Speed: 280 km/h

Economical Cruising Speed: 250 km/h

World aircraft information files brightstar publishing London sheet 34 file 901

Mitsubishi MH2000 Pictures

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Source: WikiPedia