Can someone please explain to me the advantages of a diesel engine for an aircraft the size of an B206?
I understand that Diesel is more fuel efficient, produces more torque at lower speeds due to the uniqe combustion process called "Compression Ignition" and is more durable than a regular petrol engine. But my question is why not just take the step up and go turbine?
They're smaller, and have a larger power to weight ratio than their reciprocating cousins, not to mention reliable.
Is the only reason the cost? Surely 5 POB is a good enough reason to have something you can rely on. My brief search (very brief) showed no other diesel powered helicopters?
The design, well, I think Mr. Robinson has taken his fetish for tadpoles a little too far!
