Initial Concept and Development
The CH-8 is an ultralight two-seat helicopter, developed and serially produced by the Argentine aviation company Cicare Helicopters SA. The development of this multi-purpose helicopter began in 2010 by Argentine aircraft builders. It was conceived exclusively as a private aircraft, capable of finding wide application among owners for personal purposes, as well as a sport apparatus capable of performing complex maneuvers and high-speed flights.
The design of the Cicare CH-8 helicopter took only 2.5 years. In 2013, this aircraft made its first test flight, and thanks to the manufacturer’s expectations aligning with the aircraft’s performance indicators, the project was launched into serial production.
Production and Key Features
To generate greater interest for future owners, the management of Cicare decided that this aircraft would be produced exclusively as self-assembly kits. Since this possibility was foreseen during the helicopter’s design phase, assembling the fully complete aircraft does not take long.
Due to its lightweight design and powerful power plant, the aircraft boasts high maneuverability, allowing its use as a sports vehicle. The Cicare CH-8’s cabin accommodates two people. While the aircraft has a rather narrow scope of application, particularly due to the lack of large cargo space, its demand remains quite optimistic.
Performance and Cost
The helicopter’s power plant includes one four-cylinder Rotax 917 Ti aircraft engine, which, with a power of 135 hp, can accelerate the aircraft up to 195 km/h. The maximum flight range of this aircraft is 375 kilometers. This power plant is quite simple in terms of its service and technical maintenance, and it also boasts high reliability.
According to official data from the Argentine aviation company Cicare Helicopters SA for 2013, the cost of one self-assembly kit for the CH-8 helicopter was 119,300 dollars (excluding the power plant), which is very acceptable for private owners.
Technical Specifications
| Modification | CH-8 |
| Main rotor diameter, m | 6.40 |
| Length, m | 6.92 |
| Height, m | 2.70 |
| Width, m | 1.80 |
| Empty weight | 280 |
| Maximum takeoff weight | 480 |
| Engine type | 1 Piston engine Rotax 917 Ti |
| Power, hp | 1 x 135 |
| Maximum speed, km/h | 194 |
| Cruising speed, km/h | 150 |
| Practical range, km | 1000 |
| Rate of climb, m/min | 427 |
| Practical ceiling, m | 4500 |
| Crew | 2 |
Image gallery of the Cicare CH-8
