In a significant milestone, Paramount, the global aerospace and technology company, in collaboration with its strategic partner AAL Group Ltd, has successfully completed the initial testing phase of their innovative composite helicopter blades designed for Mi-type helicopters. This noteworthy accomplishment was showcased at the Dubai Airshow, where AAL Group Composite conducted successful tests in the UAE. As AAL’s team, in partnership with Paramount, advances through the testing process toward full qualification, this achievement marks a pivotal step toward the planned initiation of composite blade production at AAL’s MRO facilities in Sharjah, UAE.
Distinguished by technical characteristics surpassing traditional metal blades, these composite blades introduce novel advantages for operators. A key feature is the ability to replace individual damaged blades, rather than the entire set, ensuring cost-efficiency and minimal downtime. In the event of damage, a damaged blade or set can be promptly repaired on-site, leading to a shorter turnaround time.
The collaboration between Paramount and AAL Group, announced on 21st February 2023, is geared toward enhancing the capabilities of Mi-type helicopters across Africa and beyond. Leveraging Paramount’s extensive experience in composite blade design and development, the partnership yields rotor blades offering extended operational life and cost-effectiveness compared to traditional metal blades. AAL Group Ltd., with over two decades of experience servicing Mi-type helicopters, brings invaluable expertise to this innovative partnership.
Steve Griessel, Paramount Global CEO, emphasized, “The integration of our advanced composite blades on AAL’s Mi helicopter is a tangible demonstration of our commitment to providing innovative solutions in the aerospace industry. These blades represent a significant leap forward in terms of performance, durability, and cost-effectiveness, and we are excited to showcase them at the Dubai Airshow. Paramount’s presence in the UAE, in partnership with AAL, exemplifies our commitment to building global networks and supporting the defense and aerospace capabilities of countries worldwide. We are excited about the future and look forward to continuing our fruitful partnership with AAL Group.”
The Dubai Airshow served as a global platform for Paramount and AAL Group to exhibit the capabilities of their Mi-type helicopter solutions to an international audience. The event also provided an opportunity to discuss the future of aerospace innovation and the crucial role of strategic partnerships in driving progress.
Paramount’s journey in composite main rotor blade development began in 2006 in response to a customer requirement. The composite blades are meticulously designed to match the functional and performance capabilities of metal blades, allowing for a seamless replacement without modification to the aircraft platform. With an operational life of up to 20,000 hours, infinite shelf life, and the ability to be replaced individually in case of damage, these composite blades lead to substantial cost savings over time.
In the midst of current challenges in the supply and delivery of main rotor blades, the production of composite blades by Paramount provides a reliable source for ongoing operations, ensuring security and defense support. The breakthrough achieved in Mi-type helicopter composite blades signals a new era in aerospace technology, promising enhanced performance, durability, and cost-effectiveness for operators around the world.
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