In addition to receiving the original XV-3 tiltrotor for restoration, Textron’s Bell Helicopter unit last month announced completing a certification program that increases the internal gross weight limit for the 206B to 3,350 pounds, an increase of 150 pounds. Takeoff at internal gross weight above 3,200 pounds will require that airspeed is limited to 78 KIAS until a corresponding amount of fuel is consumed. The useful load increase will enable the JetRanger to be more competitive in the light helicopter market, according to the company. The additional capacity will benefit the law-enforcement market in particular, as agencies will be able to expand mission capabilities and aircraft effectiveness. The internal gross weight increase will be certified as an FAA STC and will be applicable to all Bell 206B Jet Rangers in the field.
Bell Ups Jet Ranger Useful Load
Key Takeaways:
- Bell Helicopter certified an increase in the 206B JetRanger's internal gross weight limit by 150 pounds, raising it to 3,350 pounds.
- This enhancement allows for greater useful load, with a specific airspeed limitation (78 KIAS) required for takeoffs above 3,200 pounds until fuel is consumed.
- The increased capacity aims to boost the JetRanger's competitiveness, especially benefiting law enforcement by expanding mission capabilities and aircraft effectiveness.
- The weight increase will be available as an FAA STC applicable to all existing Bell 206B Jet Rangers.
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