BA609 Tests Set Stage For First Hover Flight

摘要

Bell/Agusta Aerospace Co.'s BA609 has begun six weeks of crucial systems tests that company officials expect will lead to first flight of the aircraft early next year. Bell Helicopter Textron Chairman/ CEO John Murphey said the BA609 trials represent a "new benchmark in aviation history." In his view, the aircraft "will revolutionize air transportation." Both engines of the first preproduction BA609 were started on Dec. 6 at Bell's Flight Research Center here, where a majority of the aircraft's test program will be conducted.