HC
Taking some of your points and adding my understanding:
Hydraulic jacks utilise 2 hydraulic systems, however each of the three systems are capable of backing up the other.
You say 225 has 3
generated sources of power ?
Autopilot - I believe the 225 still has a single failure mode that will remove the autopilot - the AP hydraulics?
The cracking experienced on the Norsk S92 is in non-load bearing secondary structures. I'm sure there'll be a fix real quick. The Super Puma frame cracks have been in evidence for decades and usually requires a frame change...not quite the same thing really
Airstair door....great idea, but I agree should have been done better. Good job we don't let HLO's touch anything!
My noise comments were based purely on a flight in a commercial S92. I thought the 225 cockpit was still very noisy, but better than an L2.
Crashworthy crew seats vs comfort. I agree with you on this one, comfort shouldn't really be compromised. The two are not incompatible. I also think both manufacturers should be selling their aircraft equipped with ANR headsets as standard.
Finally, thanks for your various inputs over the past 9 months or so....it's been an interesting journey.
I'm sure you'll enjoy flying the 225 if you're given the chance. I think it's a fantastic pilot's aircraft
Nick
I'll stand by my ramp weight for the S92 (excluding crew) of 17,000 lbs. Have a chat to your sales guys (JD) if you doubt me. The figure for the 225 was as quoted by ECF given the same spec.
Up to now I haven't mentioned costs as I see this as being commercially confidential information. Your summary is about right - although the operating cost gap is bigger, but all costs are totally dependant upon exchange rates.
rotorpower
The crashworthy seat protects the occupant in a number of ways. High vertical forces are absorbed by the seat (in a controlled way i.e. it doesn't simply collapse) rather than your spine, etc. High horizontal forces will not result in the seat being ripped up away from the floor mountings, etc, etc.
I hope this quick and dirty response helps you understand how a seat makes you more or less safe?
VL