I wouldn't be too quick to write off the Hiller 12. They are to be built brand new in China in 2009.
Hiller (China) Aircraft Manufacturing Company was founded in 2007 with a total investment of US $80 million, 60% of which was financed by the Chinese. The joint venture will introduce the UH-12 series helicopter manufacturing project from the US-based Hiller.
The project is designed to manufacture 200 helicopters yearly with an annual output value of 2.6 billion yuan, and realized profits and taxes of 1 billion yuan.
China's first civilian helicopters to roll off production line next year - People's Daily Online
Some of the old timers swear by the Hiller 12. We all know the low cost of Chinese production so it will be interesting to see the prices.
If China mass produces them and considering they do not have our manufacturers liability costs , it could be a real bargain . I'm sure there would be a market if the price is right.
Arnie