New detailed YouTube video here:
The ballistic parachute hype aside, Curti is set to become a new competitor for the certified ultra-light helicopter market (> 700 kg MTOW). Clearly taking a shot at Robinson, while not missing to also pass criticism at the underpowered Guimbal Cabri G2.
Powered by the 180 kW PBS turboshaft engine from the Czech Republic (derated to 108 kW for hot & high performance). 87 KTS cruising; 100 KTS max level speed; VNE 102 (ouch! that tells something). 120 lt tank gives - at that speed - 2 hrs endurance, or 172 NM reach, with only 10 min reserve. (Aux tank is planned, but there goes the luggage compartment.)
Specification from Curti's website
Price - wait for it - USD 500k. That's the same as a R44 Raven II. Maybe if it was a 3 or 4-bladed helicopter with the aerobatic capabilities of the Cabri, the extra performance at altitude and would set it apart. But the Zephir features a classic 2-bade teetering rotor system.