Kopter Group will display a full-scale mock-up of its SH09 helicopter, outfitted in seven-seat passenger configuration at this year's Heli-Expo show in Atlanta, Georgia, USA in March. The five passenger and two pilot configuration has been engineered and manufactured by Shreveport, Louisiana-based Metro Aviation, which has previously developed law enforcement and EMS interiors for Kopter's SH09.

The mock-up will be presented in the livery of sightseeing operator Papillon Helicopters' 'Grand Canyon Golden Eagle' paint scheme. Papillon's sister company Rainier Heli International, an aircraft leasing company, has placed a firm order for five SH09s with options for five more.

Kopter is continuing SH09 flight test activities. Prototype 3 is currently operating from its Mollis, Switzerland production facility ahead of its departure to Sicily for a campaign design to open the helicopter's flight envelope.

Included on Kopter Group's booth will be the SH09 motion-based simulator from VRM Switzerland, which follows a newly-signed strategic alliance that enables both companies to jointly offer flight training solutions for the SH09. VRM Switzerland, based in the Innovation Park Zürich, has developed an innovative device that will allow SH09 customers to train more efficiently and cost-effectively, benefitting from features that include a high-resolution virtual reality visual system, a highly-dynamic six degree-of-freedom motion platform, and a high-speed control unit that leverages the motion system's full performance.