Teefor Gage
Translation from the Aviasport article:
"Today's certifications, CS-27 for EASA and FAR-27 for the FAA, impose conditions that the R22 would find completely impossible to meet. For example, one sits very close to the floor in the Robinson. The position is unthinkable wih today's certifications. Accident statistics have shown that anti-crash seats save a great number of of occupants. The shock-absorption given by those in the Cabri comply with the latest standards, making survival possible in a crash completely destroying the machine.
Under the cowling, the 4 cylinder Lycoming of the same type as that of the R22, has benefitted from an advanced fit, notably with electronic ignition and matched exhaust system with silencers. The fuel circuit complies with the most stringent crash standards ( in particular no leaks after a free fall of 15m)."
Jonp
The phone book gives the address as :
Hélicoptères Guimbal SA
Chemin de la Badesse
Les Milles
13290 AIX-EN-PROVENCE
Tél : 04 42 39 10 80
Their press release states that no sales effort has yet been launched, but several operators have already expressed interest.
I'll bet they have! The R22 suddenly looks like a dinosaur, doesn't it?