Airbus Celebrates Racer High-Speed Helicopter’s First Flight

The Airbus Helicopters Racer high-speed helicopter completed its first flight in Marignane, flying for around 30 minutes and marking the start of a two-year test campaign. Powered by two Safran Aneto-1X turboshaft engines, Racer is designed to fly at more than 215 knots while burning around 20% less fuel than current-generation helicopters. Racer is part of the European Clean Sky 2 research program, which involves 40 partners in 13 countries.

According to Airbus, during cruise flight, Safran’s hybrid-electric Eco-Mode system allows one of the two engines to be switched to standby mode, providing additional fuel savings of up to 30%.

Airbus validated Racer’s aerodynamic configuration by conducting research with its X3 technology demonstrator, which combined a fixed wing with lateral propellers and a main rotor system. In 2013, the demonstrator broke the helicopter speed record by reaching 255 knots.

“Racer is a perfect example of the level of innovation that can be achieved when European partners come together,” said Airbus Helicopters CEO Bruno Even. “I look forward to seeing this demonstrator pioneer high-speed capabilities and develop the Eco-Mode system, which will help reduce fuel consumption.”