Pros: Guimbal Cabri G2
First certified in 2008,the Cabri G2 is the first new, 2 seat light training helicopter designed and complying with the latest European Safety and design legislation in thirty years. Designed by a Euro copter, now airbus engineer and with their assistance, it is used also by airbus as the VSR700 drone.
Solid responsive handling and forgiving for students.
Its modern design build construction are shown in many areas of the helicopter, such as its high inertia three bladed fully articulated rotor head, and the fenestron tail rotor.
Designed as a training helicopter from the start with may features to assist the student, such as an electronic engine governor and the glass cockpit, it is familiar transition if going onto a large airbus types.
More cockpit space than the R22 but still a little snug.
Good cruise speed of 80 - 90Kts
stowage for 40kg of soft baggage behind the pilot seat in a separated compartment , so it is handy for a weekend away or for carrying the ground handling wheels.
Adjustable settings for the tail rotor pedals to increase ergonomics.
Cons: Guimbal Cabri G2
Guimbal cabri g2 is a French design, which means that the tail rotor pedal inputs are opposite to other European and Us manufactures - something you must think about if you are switching types.
Size between the R22 and the S300CBI in the cockpit and sits in between R22 and S300 in height.
Fenestron if you are start on this type of helicopter you will have no issues going forward during your training and onto the larger airbus types with them fitted, although it does not have its own method of operation and limitations. If you switch between the conventional and fennestron tail rotor helicopters you must be aware of the handling differences and it could catch you out.
Low rotor blades requiring the aircraft to be shutdown for loading passage for safety and when walking around - watch your head!
Control responses can feel a little heavy due to the nature of the rotor head.
Tail rotor control during your speed changes takes some getting used too because of the tail fin.
