Proven CTS800 engine tops 100,000 flight hours, +500 units on order

Heli Expo, Dallas, TX February 14, 2012 – The CTS800 engine, produced by the Light Helicopter Turbine Engine Company (LHTEC), a 50:50 joint venture between Rolls-Royce and Honeywell, has surpassed 100,000 in-service flight hours, demonstrating proven technology and performance in a variety of operational environments. LHTEC has also now received firm orders for more than 500 CTS800 engines for a number of aircraft families.

2011 was an outstanding year for the CTS800 engine program and the aircraft it powers: the Sikorsky X2 high-speed technology demonstration program won a Collier Award; the T129 flight-test program was completed; and TEI qualification was completed, allowing the company to manufacture power modules for ATAK helicopters.

Looking forward, the AW159 and T129 fleets are poised to enter service in 2012-13.

Greg Fedele, Rolls-Royce, Senior Vice President – Helicopters and LHTEC board member, said: “These key milestones demonstrate the proven technology of the CTS800 engine, which has shown exceptional operational performance, providing reliable power, improved fuel efficiency, and excellent hot and high performance required for a variety of applications. The engine is easily supportable and maintainable in the field. The CTS800 program continues to gain momentum and is primed for significant growth in future.”

Matt Thraen, director of Technical Sales for Honeywell Aerospace business and LHTEC board member, said, “The CTS800 is the type of engine fleet managers can rely on to reduce operational costs. With flexibility built in, the CTS800 provides multiple helicopter platforms a 25% lower fuel burn rate and a power increase of 35% at the same weight of other engines in its class.”

The CTS800 is triple certified, including by the US Army for military use, the FAA and EASA. The CTS800 is also a competitor for several engine selections for helicopter programs in Asia.