GE Aerospace and Airbus Helicopters have completed the first phase of their collaborative global research aimed at developing a next-generation helicopter propulsion system.
The two manufacturers aim to create a fuel-efficient, reliable, and environmentally friendly helicopter engine that decreases fuel usage and CO2 emissions. The first stage of the project was research to establish a foundation for subsequent development stages.
“Collaboration is key to innovation, and our partnership with Airbus exemplifies this,” Elissa Lee, Executive Director of Commercial Turboshaft Engines at GE Aerospace said in a press release on July 24, 2024, at Farnborough Airshow. “Closing out the first stage of this joint study underscores the strength of our combined capabilities and shared vision for innovative rotorcraft propulsion solutions that will improve performance, efficiency and sustainability.”
GE Aerospace previously partnered with Airbus Helicopters on the NH90 program, with the CT7-8E turboshaft engine now offered as a power option for the twin-engine military transport helicopter.
On July 24, 2024, GE Aerospace was selected by Sierra Nevada Corporation to upgrade the GEnx-2B engines for the United States Air Force’s new Survivable Airborne Operations Center (SAOC) based on the Boeing 747-8 aircraft.