Helicopter Tours Hawaii - Different kinds of Helicopters

The EC 130

The EC 130 B4 is the new 7-8 seat single engine helicopter in the Eurocopter product range offering particular qualities of silence, comfort and spaciousness. It features a low external noise emission, 8.5dB under the ICAO requirement. This is achieved by the low noise "Fenestron" and the automatic control of the rotor RPM. The very roomy and modular cabin, has a low internal noise level, and all seats comply with FAA regulations in terms of energy absorbtion. The EC 130 B4 is powered by a Turbomeca ARRIEL 2B1 turbine engine, complete with dual channel digital engine control system (FADEC), and a back-up control box that automatically controls the engine in case of total failure of both digital channels of the FADEC.

A-Star Helicopter

This is the Eurocopter single-engine, 6-7 place AS350 series. Helicopters so well configured they practically know what you need to accomplish before you do. The 350’s maneuverability, superior visibility with all seats facing forward and low vibration level, mean your tour will be as comfortable as it is informative. The cost effective, popular AS350B2 powered with a 732 shp Turbomeca Arriel 1D1 engine is a true multi mission workhorse known for its outstanding performance. The hot and high AS350B3 version powered with a FADEC equipped 847 shp Turbomeca Arriel 2B engine offers operators the highest performance in its category with enhanced safety and reduced pilot workload utilizing a VEMD multifunction cockpit display.
With high performance, ease of flight, and sling capacity of more than 2555lbs for the B2 or 3085lbs for the B3, the AS350 is one of the most user friendly helicopters in its class.

Bell Jet Ranger

The Model 206A was the original version of the Jet Ranger general-purpose light helicopter. The prototype flew for the first time on 8 December 1962, and 660 production aircraft had been delivered by the close of production in 1972, each powered by a 317shp Allison 250-C18A turboshaft engine. This model was followed on the production lines by the Model 206B Jet Ranger II. Its 400shp Allison 250-C20 turboshaft engine allows better performance under hot-day/high-altitude conditions. A modification kit to convert Model 206As to Jet Ranger II standard was offered simultaneously with production Jet Ranger IIs. By early 1977 Bell and its licensees had manufactured more than 5000 Model 206 series helicopters (including 1619 Jet Ranger IIs), of which 2200 were for commercial use. The latest version of the Model 206 is the Model 206B Jet Ranger III powered by a 420shp Allison 250-C20B turboshaft engine. This model incorporates the enlarged and improved tail rotor mast, increased capacity oil cooler blower and improved transmission oil temperature gauge of the Lone Ranger. Modification kits for Jet Ranger II’s are also offered. By early 1978 the total number of Model 206 helicopters built had risen to 6000, including 2279 for commercial use.

Hughes 500

The Huges 500 series is the world’s most popular light turbine helicopter.  It’s rugged construction, operational performance and reliability has put the Hughes 500 among the leaders in its field.  Crisp handling and maneuverability combine to make tit a favorite of many helicopter pilots.

One of the worlds most successful and useful light turbine helicopters, the Hughes/McDonnell Douglas/Boeing 500 series began life in response to a US Army requirement for a light observation helicopter.

Hughes won the US Army observation helicopter contest against competition from Bell and Hiller with its Allison 250 powered OH6 Cayuse, which first flew in February 1963.  Prior to that Hughes announced it was developing a civil version, to be marketed as the Hughes 500.  It was offered in basic five and seven seat configuration, and a 500U, later 500C, utility version with a more powerful engine.  From 1976 deliveries were of the 500D, an improved version with a more powerful engine, a T tail, and new five-blade main and optional four blade tail rotors.  The 500D was followed by the 500E from 1882 with reconstructed nose and various interior improvements including greater head and leg room.  The 500F is a more powerful version optimized for hot and high work.