The first SKYe SH09 prototype will be joined by a second example by the end of the year.

A panel between the pilots’ seats means the crew can look directly down to monitor swing loads.

Кабина вертолета SKYe SH09

The mock-up of the SKYe SH09 helicopter, developed by the Swiss Marenco Swisshelicopter Company, made its European debut at HeliRussia 2011. The first airworthy example of the machine is due to fly in early 2012. The helicopter has a take-off weight of 2.5 tonnes, carries up to seven passengers and is powered by a single Honeywell HTS900-2 engine. The manufacturer promises a cruise speed of 270km/h (168mph) and a range of 800km (497 miles) with standard fuel.

Макет вертолета SKYe SH09

A computer-generated image of a SKYe SH09 in its home environment in Switzerland, although the manufacturer says 40-48% of sales have come from North America.