Photograph:
Ultrasport 555T ZK-HEH (c/n 0001) in 2013 (David Bates)
Country of origin:
United States of America / New Zealand
Description:
Two-seat light sport helicopter
Power Plant:
One 119 kw (160 shp) Solar T-62-32 turboshaft
Specifications:
- Rotor diameter: 7 m (23 ft)
- Length: 6.5 m (21 ft 3 in)
- Height: 2.52 m (8 ft 3 in)
- Never exceed speed: 167 km/h (104 mph)
- Cruising speed: 112 km/h (70 mph)
- Endurance: 2 hrs
- Empty weight: 310 kg (683 lb)
- Useful load including fuel: 254 kg (560 lb)
- Loaded weight: 1,190 kg (540 kg)
History:
New Zealand based Ultrasport Helicopters NZ Ltd of Manaia, Taranaki developed a turbine variant of the American Sportscopter. The patent for the helicopter lapsed and Ultrasport in New Zealand commenced development of the series. The Company stated the use of a turbine provided better safety, less vibration and fewer moving parts, the new model being based on a successful and proven engineering design. A further variant was the Ultrasport 700 with a 127 kw (170 shp) turbine and engine control system with new design features developed in New Zealand. New Zealand CAA authorised the production of the type from November 2010.
The Sportscopter was originally designed and developed in Virginia in the USA as the American Sportscopter 496 but, with the new engine and the changes made, it became the 555T. The main fuselage parts were of lightweight high-strength carbon fibre, the windscreens being of Lexan. Jet A-1 fuel was recommended but a diesel mix could be used. It ws registered in New Zealand in the Microlight Class with a weight of 540 kg (1,190 lb). It was the first two-seat helicopter to operate in New Zealand in the microlight class. The airframe was constructed of carbon fibre and the tail rotor had a surround to help prevent ground strikes. Although a two-seater, as it fitted into the microlight class in New Zealand it only needed a microlight medical assessment to fly it.
Production of the type continued for a time but a setback occurred when one was damaged at Kapuni on 17 November 2010 following engine failure. Examples registered include ZK-HJP, which was painted in “Police” markings, ZK-HEH, ZK-ITK and ZK-ITL. In late 2010 it was announced one production aircraft was to remain in New Zealand. Orders had been received from Europe for two others then on the production line. The engine has been produced by LAE Helicopters in Cyprus and is a variant of the Solar T-62 turbine providing 119 kw (160 hp). On 5 August a 555T was registered as ZK-HJY (c/n UHNZL004) to Mr D R Hopkins of Balaclutha.