The CH-77 Ranabot is a light helicopter developed by the Italian company HeliSport in 2008. Italian aircraft manufacturers began creating the helicopter in the mid-2000s. In fact, this aircraft is a designer and technically improved version of the HeliSport CH-7 Kompress helicopter. However, this model is positioned as an independent aircraft, as it possesses visible external and technical differences.
Design Innovations and Cabin Features
During the design stage, Italian developers significantly improved and refined the aerodynamic shape of this aircraft. Thanks to these enhancements, the helicopter became not only more obedient in terms of control but also more maneuverable. This is quite important, especially since in some cases, it can also be positioned as a sports aircraft.
Among other things, aviation specialists from HeliSport significantly redesigned the cockpit. Previously, in two-seater versions of this manufacturer’s aircraft, the passenger and pilot seats were arranged in a tandem layout. In the CH-77 Ranabot, the pilot’s and passenger’s seats are positioned side-by-side, which in turn allowed for a reduction in the helicopter’s overall dimensions.
Performance and Operational Versatility
The helicopter was designed exclusively for private use. However, its operational properties proved to be so high that these aircraft were subsequently used for training future pilots, for aerial observation and patrolling, and as sports aircraft, among other purposes.
Only two people can be accommodated aboard the CH-77 – one pilot and one passenger. Due to the lack of free space, this aircraft cannot be used for transporting any cargo, which did not diminish the current model’s popularity.
Depending on the configuration, the helicopter can be equipped with two brands of aircraft engines. These include the EPA Power SA-R914-130, with a thrust of 130 hp, or the EPA Power SA-R917-Ti, also with 130 hp. The latter differs from the other version with higher operational qualities.
Production and Affordability
The production of HeliSport CH-77 Ranabot helicopters is carried out by Italian aircraft manufacturers in two different variants. These include fully ready-to-operate versions, as well as versions intended for self-assembly by future owners. This option ensured a very low price for the aircraft, amounting to approximately 195,000 euros in 2013.
Technical Specifications
| Modification | CH-77 |
| Main rotor diameter, m | 6.28 |
| Length, m | 7.24 |
| Height, m | 2.47 |
| Empty weight | 280 |
| Maximum takeoff weight | 500 |
| Engine type | 1 Piston engine EPA Power SA-R914-130 |
| Power, hp | 1 x 130 |
| Maximum speed, km/h | 209 |
| Cruising speed, km/h | 160 |
| Practical range, km | 480 |
| Rate of climb, m/min | 457 |
| Practical ceiling, m | 4800 |
| Crew | 2 |
Image gallery of the CH-77 Ranabot
