Bell/Agusta BA609 Guide, Meaning , Facts, Information and Description
The Bell/Agusta BA609 is a civil twin-engined tiltrotor VTOL aircraft with a configuration similar to the Bell/Boeing V-22 Osprey. It is being developed by Bell/Agusta Aerospace Company (BAAC), a joint venture between Bell Helicopter and AgustaWestland.
History
The first ground tests of the BA609 began December 6 2002.
The first flight took place on March 6 2003 in Arlington (Texas/USA) with Roy Hopkins and Dwayne Williams at the controls.
The aircraft is laid out for 1-2 crew members and up to 9 passengers. BAAC officials claim that 65 airplanes were ordered (as of July 2004).
Although similar on the exterior, the BA609 is a much smaller aircraft than the V-22. However, some system commonality with the Osprey may be assumed.