Jetcat USA
Heliman
Location: Van Nuys, CA
| I been involved with turbines since 1994 and have seen an amazing trend with the take over of ducted fan planes in less than 10 years. In 1994, I would have never dreamed this would happen. I realize helicopters are a different application but I think it is on track for a rapid growth in another year.
I here a lot of complaints about the cost of turbine helicopters. "I got to spend over 5 grand to get in the air :~(" Well, in 1990 I spent no more than a $1000 for a jet kit, landing gear, engine and all the assorted stuff. Now a common cost of one of the 300 plus turbine jets at Florida Jets 2003 was at least $5000 with up to $20,000 or more for the top end ships. This incredible power plant has so many advantages and brings such excitement to the hobby; it has become one of the fastest growing segments. Once you get the bug to fly a turbine powered aircraft, finding a way to afford it becomes much easier!
Number of turbines?
I looked at our spread sheet today and since 12/21/02 to 6/5/03, we sold exactly 80 HP5s. I think there were probably around 3 brought over from England and I am sure V-East sold quite a few as well. I would guess there are around 100 JetCat's in the USA. This does not include the Jako's, SPS, etc sold here. The last HP5 serial number I sold was #267.
This is a much better beginning than the thrust engines were doing in 1996!
JetCat USA |
