Hill Helicopters is changing the game with their revolutionary HX50…
Based in Birmingham, U.K., Hill Helicopters have launched their revolutionary aircraft, hoping to influence the aviation market the way Elon Musk did the electric autos. The game changer in question is the Hill HX50 – the world’s first private ‘ground up’ helicopter that customers ‘build’ themselves. The HX50 is powered by a fully electronically-controlled GT50 engine which produces 368 kW with a cruising speed of 260 km/h. When compared to competitor Robinson R44’s cruising speed of 200 km/h, that’s kinda fast. Add a top speed well over 260 km/h, and maximum range of 1296 km (5000 hours) – and it’s fast and phenomenal. Hill also aims to make the user-friendly experience as intuitive as driving a car. Under panoramic windows and a skylight, the state-of-the-art digital cockpit comes with intelligent pilot support and an avionics flight management suite – with startup and shutdown done with a push of a button.
With plans to partially involve their customers in the building process, Hill has started a program that allows customers input into more than 50% of their aircraft but not before studying through a two-week workshop alongside CAA (Civil Aviation Authority) approved staff. With a strong focuse on crashworthiness and stability, buyers can choose between light skid wheels for rugged terrain or retractable wheels suited for any landing surface except softies. Stunning to look at from every angle, this five seater has looks and performance on its side, but also price. The HX50 is priced at roughly $700,000 which compares with $900,000 for the Robinson R44 and $1.3 million for the R66. It is this combination of value, performance and style that has custom-happy customers worldwide excited to mod their own HX50. Join the queue – in 2023.
By BILL VARETIMIDIS
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