Elysium
The HX50 helicopter, created by Jason Hill of Hill Helicopters, redefines personal aviation by combining cutting-edge technology, sleek design, and unmatched luxury. It is the ultimate aerial grand tourer designed to provide safety, efficiency, and stunning aesthetic appeal. This masterpiece promises to set new standards in the light helicopter industry, making personal flight accessible, enjoyable, and extraordinary.
Technical Specifications
Dimensions
- Length: 463.4 inches (11,770 mm)
- Body Length: 386.6 inches (9,820 mm)
- Height: 129.5 inches (3,290 mm)
Engine Performance
- Engine: GT50 Turboshaft
- Maximum Continuous Power: 400 hp
- Take-Off Power (5 minutes): 440 hp (up to 10,000 ft, ISA +15°C)
- Emergency Power (30 seconds): 500 hp
- Fuel Consumption (MCP): 35 US gallons per hour
- Fuel Type: Jet A1 (Alternatives to be announced soon)
- Time Between Overhauls (TBO): 5,000 hours or 20,000 cycles, on condition
Flight Performance
- Cruise Speed: 140 knots
- Maximum Range: 700 nautical miles
- Payload: 1,760 lbs
- Control System: Hill FADEC (Dual channel with manual reversion)
- Management: Fully integrated with Hill Digital Cockpit
Key Features at a Glance
- Passenger Capacity: Pilot + 4 passengers
- Landing Gear Options: Retractable wheels and skids
- Integrated Technology: Advanced avionics and user-friendly systems
- Luggage Capacity: 0.7 cubic meters
Exterior Design
The HX50 boasts an exterior design that merges futuristic aesthetics with aerodynamics, delivering maximum performance and efficiency. Every element has been carefully crafted to enhance safety, utility, and elegance. Highlights include:
- Retractable Landing Gear: Offers efficient high-speed cruising and effortless ground handling.
- Fixed Skid System: Designed for rugged terrain, providing flexibility and robustness.
- Panoramic Ceiling: An uninterrupted glass array including a skylight, offering breathtaking views in all directions.
- Compact Design: Retractable blades for easy parking in confined spaces.
- Generous Luggage Compartment: With 0.7 cubic meters of storage, it comfortably accommodates suitcases, sports gear, and more.
Interior Luxury
The HX50’s interior sets a new benchmark in light helicopter luxury. It provides a spacious cabin for the pilot and four passengers, combining modern design with practical functionality:
- Seating: Five 500 mm-wide seats crafted with Nappa leather, Alcantara trim, and brushed metal accents.
- Technology: Full iPad integration, Bluetooth connectivity, USB ports, and integrated headset holders for convenience.
- Climate Control: Ensures passenger comfort regardless of weather conditions.
- Visibility: Elevated rear seats and panoramic windows create an unmatched in-flight experience.
- Safety: Four-point harnesses for all seats and a user-friendly cockpit layout.
Cabin Innovations
The HX50 cabin is a revolutionary space designed for both pilots and passengers. Features include:
- Ergonomic Design: User-friendly flight controls reduce fatigue during longer flights.
- Ambient Lighting: Provides a serene atmosphere that is adjustable to match passenger preferences.
- Enhanced Storage: Individual storage compartments for personal belongings.
- Acoustic Engineering: Noise-reduction measures ensure a quieter, more peaceful flight.
Digital Cockpit: A Technological Marvel
The Hill Digital Cockpit (HDC) elevates the user experience by blending cutting-edge avionics with intuitive design. It simplifies flight operations while enhancing safety and engagement. Key features include:
- Complete iPad Integration: Seamless synchronization with navigation and flight planning apps.
- Intelligent Pilot Support: Context-sensitive systems reduce workload and provide actionable alerts.
- Haptic Control System: Provides tactile feedback to ensure operational envelope protection.
- Hill Cloud and App Services: Enables active safety management, electronic flight logs, and real-time communication.
Simplified User Interface
The HDC streamlines the pilot experience with:
- Centralized Controls: All systems are managed through a single, intuitive interface.
- Enhanced Displays: Dynamic digital gauges present flight information clearly and concisely.
- Advanced Connectivity: Integration with cellular networks for seamless communication.
The GT50 Engine: Unlocking True Potential
The GT50 turboshaft engine, purpose-built for the HX50, combines proven technology with modern innovations. It offers unmatched reliability, efficiency, and performance. Key attributes include:
- Simplified Design: Eliminates traditional gearbox complexities, reducing weight and maintenance.
- Advanced FADEC: Provides optimal engine monitoring and control for a seamless flying experience.
- Bio-Fuel Ready: Supports sustainability with a modern annular combustor system.
Engine Highlights
- Power Output: 500 hp maximum emergency power
- Fuel Efficiency: 35 gallons per hour at maximum continuous power
- Durability: 5,000 hours or 20,000 cycles before overhaul
Safety Features
Hill Helicopters has integrated state-of-the-art safety measures into the HX50 to ensure confidence during every flight:
- Haptic Feedback Controls: Enhance pilot awareness and operational safety.
- Smart Annunciations: Provide actionable alerts without causing panic.
- Active Safety Management: Real-time monitoring of flight conditions and pilot performance.
- Redundancy Systems: Dual-channel FADEC ensures uninterrupted control.
Vision and Legacy
Jason Hill’s vision for the HX50 was to create a helicopter that fuses premium automotive styling with advanced aviation technology. Over 20 years of research and development culminated in an aircraft that meets the highest safety, performance, and luxury standards. This vision has resulted in a helicopter that serves as a personal business tool, a recreational marvel, and a symbol of innovative design.
Applications of the HX50
The HX50 is designed to cater to various needs:
Recreational Adventures: Perfect for exploring remote landscapes and enjoying aerial tours.
Personal Travel: A luxurious and efficient way to navigate intermediate distances.
Business Use: A tool for executives seeking exclusive, time-saving transportation.
HX50 Helicopter
It is not just a helicopter but a statement of innovation, luxury, and modern engineering. Designed for personal and business use, it promises to revolutionize light helicopter aviation by making it safer, more accessible, and more enjoyable. Whether exploring remote landscapes or traveling between cosmopolitan hubs, the HX50 delivers an unparalleled aerial experience—an authentic grand tourer.
For those seeking to elevate their journey with sophistication and cutting-edge technology, the HX50 helicopter represents the pinnacle of personal aviation.
Hill Helicopters: A Visionary Revolution in General Aviation
Hill Helicopters is reshaping general aviation with its revolutionary HX50 helicopter. Designed to fulfill a long-neglected niche in the aviation market, the HX50 merges luxury, cutting-edge technology, and affordability. With an unmatched combination of performance, style, and sustainability, Hill Helicopters has created an aircraft that is a testament to innovation and ambition.
Jason Hill, the company’s founder, chairman, and chief engineer, is at the heart of this groundbreaking venture. Hill’s passion for aviation and drive to create the perfect helicopter have led to the development of the HX50, a masterpiece that embodies his lifelong dream.
A Childhood Dream Realized
Jason Hill’s fascination with helicopters began during his childhood in 1980s England. Inspired by the American TV series Airwolf, which featured an advanced fictional supersonic helicopter, Hill dreamed of flying an aircraft that combined supercar aesthetics with unparalleled performance. However, the realization that such a machine did not exist ignited his determination to create one.
Hill’s journey began with a first-class honors degree in Mechanical Engineering from Aston University, followed by a doctorate in Computational Aerodynamics at Cranfield University, sponsored by the renowned helicopter manufacturer AgustaWestland. During his time with AgustaWestland, Hill honed his helicopter design and engineering skills, laying the foundation for his life’s work.
In 2007, Hill established Dynamiq Engineering, a consultancy where he and his team tackled complex engineering challenges. They devoted their energy to designing and developing the HX50 when not consulting. By 2020, the project had gained enough traction to accept advance orders, marking a pivotal moment in Hill’s vision.
The Hill Helicopters Executive Team
Hill Helicopters is driven by a team of accomplished professionals committed to delivering excellence:
- Jason Hill – Founder, Chairman, and Chief Engineer. Hill’s visionary force behind the HX50 combines technical expertise with an unwavering passion for aviation.
- Peter Teare – Chief Executive Officer. Teare provides strategic leadership, ensuring the company’s vision translates into market success.
- Michelle Eccleshall – Finance Director. With a focus on financial strategy, Eccleshall ensures the company’s sustainable growth.
- Mark Webb – Production Director. Webb oversees manufacturing operations, ensuring the highest standards of quality and efficiency.
The HX50: Redefining Rotary Aviation
The HX50 helicopter is a 5-seat luxury helicopter that satisfies the demand for a modern, stylish, and affordable rotary aircraft. Designed and manufactured entirely in-house in Hill’s British factory, the HX50 eliminates traditional supply chain inefficiencies, significantly reducing the cost of ownership and operation.
Key Features of the HX50:
- Composite Design: Lightweight and durable, offering unmatched performance and fuel efficiency.
- Interior Luxury: Nappa leather seats, panoramic windows, and advanced climate control ensure a first-class experience.
- GT50 Engine: A biofuel-ready, highly efficient power plant that supports sustainability goals.
- Advanced Avionics: The Hill Digital Cockpit integrates iPad-based navigation and streamlined controls for ease of use.
- Customization: Buyers can personalize their helicopters with various interior and exterior finishes.
Market Impact
Since its introduction, the HX50 helicopter has become the world’s fastest-selling helicopter, capturing the imagination of aviation enthusiasts and professionals alike. Its groundbreaking design, performance, and affordability have redefined general aviation, positioning Hill Helicopters as a global leader.
A Sustainable Future
Hill Helicopters is committed to sustainability. The GT50 engine is designed to be biofuel-ready, offering a practical pathway to achieving net-zero emissions in general aviation. Additionally, the company is developing a cellulose biowaste fuel solution to minimize environmental impact further.
The Vision Behind Hill Helicopters
Jason Hill’s vision extends beyond creating a luxury helicopter. He wants to revolutionize general aviation by making high-quality rotary aircraft accessible to a broader audience. The HX50 helicopter represents cutting-edge engineering, automotive-grade styling, and a commitment to sustainability, all of which promise an unparalleled flying experience.
Conclusion
Hill Helicopters exemplifies innovation and ambition in aviation. With the HX50, the company has addressed long-standing market gaps, offering a helicopter that combines luxury, performance, and sustainability at an affordable price. Jason Hill’s childhood dream has evolved into a game-changing reality, forever altering the landscape of general aviation.
As the world’s fastest-selling helicopter, the HX50 not only fulfills the dreams of its creator but also sets a new standard for what a rotary aircraft can achieve. Hill Helicopters continues to push boundaries, delivering unparalleled experiences to pilots and passengers alike and paving the way for a sustainable future in aviation.
October 2024 HX50 Monthly Update & AMA Recap
The October AMA for Hill Helicopters showcased the incredible journey of transforming the HX50 from a conceptual sketch to a near-reality aircraft. This session emphasized the milestones achieved, the challenges faced, and the plans for an exciting year ahead. Hill Helicopters is redefining the personal helicopter industry by listening to customer feedback and committing to excellence. Here’s a detailed recap of the updates shared.
Achievements and Reflections
Development Milestones
Jason Hill, founder and chief engineer, reflected on the achievements of the HX50 project, which began as a dream and evolved into a cutting-edge aviation innovation. Milestones include:
- Engine Development: The creation of the first new light helicopter gas turbine engine since the 1980s, designed to meet the ambitious performance and price targets set for the HX50.
- Digital Cockpit: An advanced cockpit with stability augmentation, autopilot features, and the Hill App for active safety management.
- Vertical Integration:Â Hill Helicopters is committed to manufacturing all components in-house, reducing costs, and maintaining quality control.
The Team
The success of the HX50 is attributed to the expertise of a globally sourced team of specialists. Jason Hill highlighted the dedication of engineers and designers who share a passion for innovation.
“If you were to take all the people in the world that know about designing helicopters and developing gas turbine engines, you would be able to fit them all in a single cinema theatre.” – Jason Hill
Overcoming Challenges
Expansion to Production Centre One
Rapid growth necessitated the move to a 76,000-square-foot facility, Production Centre One (PC1). Initially unplanned for this phase of the project, the facility now houses:
- Precision machine shops
- Composite curing facilities
- Avionics assembly structures
- Aircraft paint and welding stations
The transition required taking production offline temporarily to consolidate equipment and operations, a process that spanned months. Despite the early move, Jason Hill described the outcome as “nothing short of spectacular.”
Installed Infrastructure
PC1 boasts:
- Dust-tight pattern trim facilities
- Advanced metrology and laser welding labs
- Digital control production systems
- Secure part storage and wiring loom facilities
Ongoing and Upcoming Work
Current efforts include building glazing production facilities, mechanical assembly shops, and a composites clean room. These enhancements will support larger assembly tasks and sophisticated test rigs, ensuring seamless operations.
Key Program Dates and Projections
Timeline for 2024-2025
- Q4 2024: Complete starter generator testing, power electronics evaluation, and HX50 cockpit user interface finalization.
- Q1 2025: Drivetrain tests for the GT50 engine, cabin crash testing, and electrical system validation.
- Q2 2025: Gas generator and power turbine module tests, undercarriage evaluations, and flight control trials.
- Q3 2025: Certification endurance tests for the GT50 engine, airframe, and rotor system testing.
- Q4 2025: Aircraft drivetrain testing, ground runs, and the first HX50 flight on December 20, 2025.
Key Milestones
- June 28, 2025: First run of the GT50 engine.
- September 11, 2025: The 4th Hill Global Meetup & Discover Event, celebrating the GT50’s certification endurance test.
- December 7, 2026: Start of HX50 production.
Customer Engagement and Community
Jason Hill emphasized the importance of customer feedback throughout the development process. The HX50 community’s input has been invaluable in refining designs and features. Hill Helicopters encourages enthusiasts to join the growing community and be part of this transformative journey.
“The little dream of building a better helicopter has turned into a massive reality.” – Jason Hill
Conclusion
The October AMA demonstrated the remarkable progress of the HX50 program, underscored by bold innovation and the collective efforts of a dedicated team. As the project moves closer to its first flight, Hill Helicopters continues to set a new standard in general aviation, blending luxury, performance, and sustainability into an extraordinary personal helicopter.
The year ahead promises to be monumental—and there’s no better time to be part of the Hill Helicopters community.
