AVX Aircraft is proposing to convert the U.S. Army’s existing OH-58Ds by replacing the conventional rotors with co-axial counter-rotating rotors and ducted fans instead of a tail rotor. AVX spokesman Mike Cox says an investment of $31 million would result in the development of a concept demonstrator aircraft which, he claims, could be flying within 18 months. However, he notes that the company does not want to begin a manufacturing line and was talking to a number of potential partners, including Bell Helicopter, although all talks are at a very early stage.
And let's get one thing straight. There's a big difference between a pilot and an aviator. One is a technician; the other is an artist in love with flight. — E. B. Jeppesen
