Rolls-Royce has signed a multi-engine order with Scott’s – Bell 47 and will deliver the first RR300 engine this summer for installation in a flight test aircraft.

Scott’s – Bell 47 already has orders for 38 of its new 47GT-6 helicopters with first deliveries scheduled in 2016, and expects to produce more than 30 aircraft per year by 2017. In addition to the RR300 gas turbine engine, the new helicopter will feature several advanced upgrades to the legendary 47G aircraft, including a new avionics suite, new main rotor blades and modern driveshaft coupling technologies. The new helicopter targets the light-utility operator, agricultural and turbine-transition/IFR flight training operators.

Scott’s – Bell 47 announced its intention to build its new aircraft at Heli Expo in 2013, and has now signed the multi-engine deal with Rolls-Royce. It will be the second aircraft to be powered by the RR300, which was launched in 2007. The new aircraft will use a “plug and play” installation of the RR300 and require no changes or performance modifications.

Greg Fedele, Rolls-Royce, Senior Vice President, Helicopters, said, “This new version of a legendary helicopter from Scott’s – Bell 47 caused great excitement at Heli Expo last year and we are thrilled to announce this new multi-engine agreement. The RR300 engine has demonstrated great success already in the field, proving itself as powerful, reliable and fuel efficient. We look forward to many years of deliveries for the Scott’s – Bell 47.”

Scott Churchill, President & Owner of Scott’s – Bell 47, said, “We are very excited to be partnering with Rolls-Royce on the 47GT-6 program. The RR300 ratings are a perfect fit for the 47, and with its already proven in-service record, we believe the 47GT-6 with the RR300 engine will be a very successful combination in the light utility marketplace.”

Rolls Royce press release