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 has completed certification to increase the internal gross weight limit for its 206B JetRanger by 150 pounds, to 3,350 pounds.
- This FAA STC-certified increase aims to make the JetRanger more competitive, expanding mission capabilities and effectiveness, especially for law enforcement.
- Takeoffs exceeding 3,200 pounds internal gross weight will require airspeed to be limited to 78 KIAS until a corresponding amount of fuel is consumed.
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