My company is considering getting a B212 for external load work in order to carry more per trip than we presently do, using an AS350. We’d use the aircraft in a warm, low-altitude environment (35ºC, below 2,000 ft MSL); our loads are heavy and compact, and stable when carried on a line. Other than a hook limit of 5,000 lbs. and a max gross weight of 11,900 lbs., I don’t know any weights/performance limits on this type of aircraft. If any of you have used or are using the B212 in external load operations, please help me with the following questions:
- What is a typical empty weight for a B212 in VFR, external load configuration (no autopilot or co-pilot instruments, seats removed or web seats only)?
- What is the max gross weight of the B212 with external load, in other words, is there a difference with the internal load-only MGW?
- What’s the average fuel burn per hour doing external load work?
- What is the published VNE with door(s) removed, bubble door for the pilot, and/or with a load on the hook?
- In the environment I’ve described (ISA + 20-25ºC, 0-2,000 ft MSL), does the B212’s performance (hover OGE) limit it to less than its structural limits?
- How would a B205-A1 rate in comparison to a B212 on these points and also price?
Any help with these questions will be highly appreciated.
- What is a typical empty weight for a B212 in VFR, external load configuration (no autopilot or co-pilot instruments, seats removed or web seats only)?
- What is the max gross weight of the B212 with external load, in other words, is there a difference with the internal load-only MGW?
- What’s the average fuel burn per hour doing external load work?
- What is the published VNE with door(s) removed, bubble door for the pilot, and/or with a load on the hook?
- In the environment I’ve described (ISA + 20-25ºC, 0-2,000 ft MSL), does the B212’s performance (hover OGE) limit it to less than its structural limits?
- How would a B205-A1 rate in comparison to a B212 on these points and also price?
Any help with these questions will be highly appreciated.