New FAA rule sparks 'Fly-by-Wire' copter: ATRX-700 unveiled
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Betting on the future of personal air transport, Advanced Tactics and Rotor X have unveiled their plan to introduce a more affordable “fly-by-wire” copter named ATRX-700 Light Sport Helicopter.
The move follows the Federal Aviation Administration's (FAA) recent announcement that it will finally classify helicopters as Light Sports, which means new helicopter pilots now have the option to train in and buy a secure and reasonably priced personal helicopter. Light Sport Helicopters such as the ATRX-700 will require no assembly and are flight-ready when delivered from the factory.
An agreement signed by the companies will see the California-based Advanced Tactics design, modify, and produce a new, improved fly-by-wire version of the Rotor X 2-seat A600 Turbo kit helicopter.
"The FAA's MOSAIC update to the future of the Light Sport Aircraft category is great news for anyone interested in flying helicopters. Light Sport Helicopters will now be easier to fly, easier to find training in, won’t require a 3rd Class Medical, and can come fully-assembled while still maintaining the low cost of entry that experimental aircraft are known for," said a statement by Advanced Tactics.
A versatile machine
The 180-horsepower turbocharged engine, rotor systems, and structural elements that the ATRX-700 will have are shared from the Rotor X's A600 Turbo platform. Still, the new vehicle will feature a larger, more open cockpit, larger fuel tanks, and easier fly-by-wire controls.
Even though it's aimed at personal use-case scenarios, the ATRX-700 Light Sport Helicopter boasts impressive specifications, including a maximum gross takeoff weight of 1,700 pounds, enabling it to accommodate payloads of up to 650 pounds. With a cruise speed of 100 mph and a service ceiling of 16,000 feet, it offers efficient transportation and the capability to navigate diverse environments. The helicopter's range of 300 miles further enhances its utility.
In the past and on current USAF projects, Advanced Tactics has created several novel fly-by-wire controlling systems for the US Military. Additionally, the firm is engaged in two active USAF AFWERX contracts. One is to construct a huge pilot-optional VTOL aircraft with a massive stern ramp that can carry 2,500 lbs of freight or vehicles with a range of over 300 miles, and the other is to develop a VTOL drone that can fly 300 miles and deliver 500 lbs of cargo.
Using computers, Advanced Tactics will create a helicopter cockpit with cutting-edge in-flight controls to let the pilot always have a highly safe flight. The new criterion for obtaining certification to fly Light Sport Helicopters is 30 hours of helicopter flight time, and Advanced Tactics will offer flight instruction at several sites nationwide.
Advanced Tactics is now accepting pre-orders and deposits for the ATRX-700 helicopter, which will go into production in February or March 2025 and has an introductory price of $188,000. The time the FAA takes to complete the new Light Sport Helicopter requirements will determine the actual manufacturing timetable. It is evident that this category will see many players introduce their offerings once the FAA update is in place.
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