The S-92 will be FAA Part 29 certified in a few days, scheduled for 20 Dec with virtually everything completed except for the last few component tests, which are running a full speed in the test lab. We have prepared over 1450 FAA approved reports, with less than 25 to go, and we have the final Type Cert Board meeting on 17 Dec. No glitches are expected.
The cert will be the first for Flaw Tolerant structures in helicopters, as well as full bird strike protection and turbine burst protection. All these things complicated the testing, but result in measurable safety enhancement.
Next year we do the cold, high altitude landings, JAA cert, rotor de-ice and snow. First deliveries are in the first quarter of 04, with a Canadian customer for the #1 aircraft.
Sasless,
Since I am the Program Manager (capitols denote a deepening of the voice as we say those words....) I get to decide if I go to Canada in the cold tests, and I think I am needed in West Palm Beach right about then!