This paper describes the design objectives, features and performance of the recently developed Bell Model 222. The Model 222 was designed to meet the needs of the worldwide commercial market. Primary design objectives were safety, efficiency, reduced cost of ownership, and superior handling qualities. From the test results, the Model 222 is a fuel conservative, productive aircraft with excellent flying qualities.
Federal Aviation Administration Air-worthiness Standards, Transport Category Rotorcraft (FAR Part 29 - Category A) provides the basis for civil certification; however, the 222 far exceeds the FAA requirements for fail-safe design and crashworthiness. Redundancy, 8g seats, crash resistant fuel tanks, and real twin-engine safety are examples. The latter refers to the fact that for any altitude at which the helicopter can hover OGE, it can continue to cruise if one engine fails.
The first flight was in August 1976 and development is essentially complete. The aircraft will be delivered in early 1979 after the most comprehensive test program ever conducted on a commercial helicopter.