What kinds of testing have been performed on the Ultrasport 254/331/496?
When American Sportscopter built the first two prototype helicopters, we instrumented the rotor blades, pitch links, control system and rotor shaft with strain gages. A 20 channel data recording system was installed, along with a slip ring, and 5 accelerometers on the airframe of the flight test helicopter. An experienced test pilot then performed a full flight test, and we gathered and analyzed the flight loads and performance data. We know the loads that each component in the dynamic drive train and rotor system is subject to under the most demanding flight conditions. We have applied several factors to these loads in our production design, ensuring you will not reach a load limit of any component when flying our family of helicopters. All flight critical components are built to the same quality standards as components produced for the major aerospace helicopter companies. All are specially designed and manufactured for the Ultrasport helicopters. No off-the-shelf automotive or uncer
