VH-71 Presidential Helicopter Test Aircraft Completes Maiden Flight

The first test aircraft built specifically for the VH-71 Presidential Helicopter program made its maiden flight on July 3 at AgustaWestland's facility in Yeovil, UK. During the 40-minute flight, test pilots performed general aircraft handling checks, tested flight characteristics at varying speeds up to 135 knots, and evaluated the on-board avionics systems.

"Seeing our first VH-71 test vehicle flying is an important stepping stone and an exciting event for the entire program, the culmination of a tremendous amount of work by the Government and industry team. We all should be proud of this accomplishment as we look forward to the day when these helicopters are landing on the South Lawn of the White House." Doug Isleib
U.S. Navy Program Manager
Presidential Helicopters Program

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