Airbus Helicopters has successfully conducted testing of the Fly-By-Wire flight control system in its flying laboratory, FlightLab. This innovative technology is specifically designed for the prototype Evtol CityAirbus NextGen aircraft, which features vertical take-off and landing capabilities and operates on electric power.
The traditional control system for helicopters involves the simultaneous use of multiple control mechanisms, which can be challenging to coordinate. Pilots need to control the joystick to adjust the position of the rotors, use a handle with a throttle to change altitude, and rely on pedals for controlling the tail rotor.
The major breakthrough achieved by Airbus is the introduction of Fly-by-Wire technology. This electronic control system replaces the mechanical connection between the pilot and the helicopter systems, simplifying the traditional control mechanisms. With this innovation, Airbus has managed to consolidate the controls to a single joystick. Now, pilots can perform all main maneuvers, including take-off, landing, forward and backward movements, lateral movements, and rotation around its axis, using just one joystick.
This simplification of controls not only makes helicopter flights more affordable and less complicated for pilots, but also paves the way for the future mass use of EVTOL (Electric Vertical Takeoff and Landing) aircraft in urban environments. Furthermore, the new interface provided by Airbus offers pilots intuitive information focused on key parameters, enhancing flight safety.
Tomash Krysinsky, the head of the research and innovation department at Airbus Helicopters, highlighted the significant reduction in pilot workload achieved through the implementation of the electric control system. He also emphasized that this innovation represents a crucial step in the development of urban air mobility and preparation for the future of vertical flight.