In 2010, Argentine helicopter designer Augusto Ulderico Cicaré undertook the modification of the Italian CH-7 Angel helicopter. In 2011, Cicaré Helicópteros S.A. released the first CH-7B Spirit, a single-seater ultralight helicopter. It was equipped with a four-cylinder Rotax 912S engine, producing 100 hp (75 kW).
Origins and Development
The following year, Cicaré began developing a two-seater version, the CH-7T Spirit Tandem. Its design largely adopted elements from the previous model, with only minor additions and improvements. This approach significantly minimized the time required to create the finished aircraft and, consequently, reduced overall development costs.
The CH-7T made its maiden flight in 2014, and after confirming excellent flight performance without deviations, the aircraft was directed to serial production. The helicopter was exclusively released as self-assembly kits, which ensured minimal cost and popularized this model among enthusiasts.
Design and Production Features
The CH-7T features a highly compact cabin, accommodating only two people on board in a tandem configuration due to limited free space. Consequently, transporting any cargo on this aircraft model is not possible, which somewhat restricts its application range. The pilot’s and one passenger’s seats are arranged in a tandem layout.
Performance and Ergonomics
The helicopter is equipped with a Rotax 914 UL four-cylinder piston aircraft engine, capable of generating 115 hp of lift thrust. This, in turn, provides the helicopter with an adequate payload capacity of 205 kilograms and allows for flights up to 350 kilometers at a cruising speed of 160 km/h.
Argentine aircraft builders created a very compact design, which, while sacrificing some comfort, ensured high maneuverability. This is crucial for sport aircraft. Furthermore, the helicopter’s compact design also helped minimize the assembly period of this aircraft, providing more favorable metrics for promoting the project.
Technical Specifications
| Modification | CH-7T |
| Main rotor diameter, m | 6.40 |
| Length, m | 7.48 |
| Height, m | 2.44 |
| Empty weight | 275 |
| Maximum takeoff weight | 480 |
| Engine type | 1 Piston engine Rotax 914UL |
| Power, hp | 1 x 115 |
| Maximum speed, km/h | 195 |
| Cruising speed, km/h | 160 |
| Practical range, km | 350 |
| Practical ceiling, m | 4500 |
| Crew, crew | 2 |
Image gallery of the CH-7B/T Spirit
