X3: First Feedback

Stay tuned to http://events.eurocopter.com to follow all the details of the tour.

The afternoon of June 20 was a busy one for the X3 at American Eurocopter's Grand Prairie facility. Four customers were able to not only fly on board the demonstrator, but take over the commands as well and pilot the X3.

Dario Franchitti, Indy race car driver, was the first to experience the X3 up close and personal. He said that flying the X3 was an incredible experience and outshines his race cars in terms of speed.

Greg Rochna, CEO of Maverick Helicopters, donned the khaki flight suit next and was blown away by the performance of the X3. He said that it was as easy to fly as an Ecureuil/AStar light helicopter. "This concept is just perfect," said Mr. Rochna. "It's viable, doable and not complicated. It makes sense. It operates and even lands just like a conventional helicopter, and that's what's so amazing."

Next to try his hand at the flight controls was Bill Force, chief pilot for Hill Air, the aviation department of major real estate development company Hillwood. Mr. Force praised the maneuverability of the aircraft and its stability.

Closing out the day's flights was Rod Lewis, CEO of the Lewis Energy Group. He was impressed by the climb performance and said that as someone who likes to fly fast in fast aircraft, he thinks the X3 will certainly find its place in the aviation industry in the years to come.

Shooting & Editing : Thibault TEYCHENE
©EUROCOPTER, June 2012

Видео X3: First Feedback канала Airbus Helicopters