Bell BA 609 - Definition and Overview

The Bell/Agusta BA609 is a civil twin-engined tiltrotor VTOL aircraft with a configuration similar to the Bell/Boeing V-22 Osprey. It is being developed by Bell/Agusta Aerospace Company (BAAC), a joint venture between Bell Helicopter and AgustaWestland.

History

The first ground tests of the BA609 began December 6 2002. The first flight took place on March 6 2003 in Arlington (Texas/USA) with Roy Hopkins and Dwayne Williams at the controls. The aircraft is laid out for 1-2 crew members and up to 9 passengers. BAAC officials claim that 65 airplanes were ordered (as of July 2004).

Although similar on the exterior, the BA609 is a much smaller aircraft than the V-22. However, some system commonality with the Osprey may be assumed.

General Characteristics

• Propulsion: 2 x Pratt & Whitney Canada PT6C-67A @ 1447 kW
• Dimension:
  • Length: 13.31 m
  • Height: 4.5 m
  • Wingspan: 10 m
  • Rotor diameter: 7.93 m
• Weight:
  • Empty: 4765 kg
  • Payload: 2500 kg
  • Max: 7260 kg
• Max cruise speed: 510 km/h
• Service ceiling: 7625 m
• Range: 1390 km

• Cost: 10 Mio USD
• Operating cost: 875 USD/h