Video - The Swiss light helicopter SKYe SH09 lives up to its ambitions

This SKYe SH09 reaches its cruising speed at Mollis, 30 miles (50 km) south-east of Zurich in Switzerland. After ten years of development, Marenco Swisshelicopter aims to obtain its European certification (EASA), along with first deliveries of its light helicopter, next year. For this young and innovative company, it’s the first-ever flying machine.

With its lightweight composite cell and five carbon blades, the SKYe SH09 weighs only 2,900 lbs. (1.3 metric tonnes). A fast cruise speed of 160 mph (260 km/h), is coupled with a long range of 500 miles (800 km). Multiple configurations, and carrying up to 7 passengers,  make this a versatile, single-turbine light helicopter - capable of fulfilling all kinds of civilian missions.

Selling at $3.5 million, the Swiss helicopter already has several firm orders. The machine will be presented on March 7^th at the Heli-Expo in Dallas, Texas (USA).