Would it be possible to fit some kind of retractable winch to that front door (it looks like a plug type door, but I may be wrong).
Surely something with that kind of speed to destination would have utility as a SAR platform?
Or would there be a problem with hot exhaust gas directed downwards while in helicopter mode?
I assume the fuse is far enough from the nacelle to avoid cooking anyone on a winch in helicopter mode - but again, may be wrong.
Interesting to note that the Bell Valor rotates only the prop-rotor, not the entire engine assembly - wonder if we will see new civil tilt rotors that do the same thing?
Last edited by tartare; 11th Mar 2015 at 03:08.