Meridionali/Agusta EMA 124

The Meridionali/Agusta EMA 124 was a light utility helicopter flown in prototype form in Italy in 1970.[1] The design was undertaken by Agusta for production in a joint venture with Elicotteri Meridionali, based on the Bell 47 that Agusta was building under licence at the time.[2]

EMA 124
Role Utility helicopter
National origin Italy
Manufacturer Elicotteri Meridionali/Agusta
First flight 28 May 1970
Number built 1
Developed from Bell 47

The EMA 124 retained the Bell 47's dynamic components, tubular tail, and undercarriage, but was fitted with a new, more aerodynamic forward fuselage with a cabin to seat three.[1] The fuel tank and engine installation were also "cleaned up", and the rotor omitted the stabiliser bars fitted to the Bell 47's rotor.[2]

A single prototype was flown in 1970 (registration I-EMAF), but nothing further came of the project.[3]


Specifications

Data from Stevens 1972, 184

General characteristics

  • Crew: One pilot
  • Capacity: 2 passengers
  • Empty weight: 700 kg (1,540 lb)
  • Gross weight: 1,150 kg (2,540 lb)
  • Powerplant: 1 × Lycoming VO-540-B1B3 , 186 kW (250 hp)
  • Main rotor diameter: 9.50 m (31 ft 2 in)

Performance

  • Maximum speed: 170 km/h (110 mph, 96 kn)
  • Range: 420 km (260 mi, 230 nmi)
  • Service ceiling: 4,300 m (14,100 ft)
  • Rate of climb: 4.2 m/s (827 ft/min)

Notes
  1. Taylor 1989, 648
  2. Stevens 1972, 184
  3. Simpson 1998, 37

References
  • Simpson, R. W. (1998). Airlife's Helicopters and Rotorcraft. Ramsbury: Airlife Publishing. ISBN 1-85310-968-1.
  • Stevens, James Hay (3 February 1972). "World helicopter and V/Stol market". Flight International: 176–92. Retrieved 2008-10-20.
  • Taylor, Michael J. H. (1989). Jane's Encyclopedia of Aviation. London: Studio Editions. ISBN 0-7106-0710-5.
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