Boeing to test advanced rotorcraft flight control system

RIDLEY PARK, Pa., Aug. 8, 2012. Boeing [NYSE: BA] has received a new contract for the continued development of a technology that improves helicopters' maneuverability and performance. The $18 million U.S. Army contract is for phase II of the Adaptive Vehicle Management System (AVMS) program.

The advanced rotorcraft flight control system, a joint development project between Boeing and the Army Aviation Applied Technology Directorate (AATD), helps reduce aircrew workload and overall operating costs. AVMS adapts the flight controls to the aircraft's flight condition, environment and even pilot intent. The AVMS improves the aircraft’s ability to operate in reduced-visibility situations with greater stability and improved safety.

The second phase of the contract will encompass more than 100 hours of flight test time on various rotorcraft.

In Phase II, the team will fly the AVMS system on the modified Boeing H-6 helicopter used in Phase I, as well as on the larger Boeing AH-64 Apache and CH-47 Chinook helicopters. The tests will demonstrate the design's portability and show how it affects flight performance during attack and cargo missions.