Savback Helicopters debuts ultra-light Zefhir helicopter in the UK

Savback Helicopters is bringing the Italian-built two-seat Zefhir helicopter to the Private Flyer show. This event brings together best-in-class luxury brands, private jets, helicopters, supercars, powerboats, yachts and lifestyle accessories - all in one location.  

The Zefhir helicopter, developed by CURTI Aerospace, has been designed for the discerning private pilot as a high-quality, two-seat single-turbine aircraft *.   Its airframe and components have been designed to meet the exacting requirements of EASA CS-27, with its carbon fibre airframe and the largest luggage space in its category.  Light, efficient and durable composite rotor blades and an elegant and clean interior add to its style.  The CURTI company draws on decades of experience in the production of complex parts for certified helicopters.

Matching state-of-the-art materials and technology with a passion for flying deeply rooted in the company’s DNA, Zefhir gives the perfect synthesis between competence and intuition. Its Italian design is reflected in its attention to detail.  Zefhir is presented as a ‘jewel of modern technology and materials,’ right down to its elegant lines and exclusive style interiors.

Nabore Benini, Vice President, CURTI, commented: “The Zefhir also offers a unique option - an innovative extra safety feature - a ballistic parachute which deploys in the unlikely event of engine failure or pilot incapacitation.This makes it the the first and only helicopter in the world with a tried and test parachute.”

Manufactured in Italy Motor Valley

CURTI is based in the heart of Italy famous Motor Valley, which boasts a long tradition of supercars and super bikes, luxury and sport.   Within an hour’s drive are Ferrari, Maserati, Lamborghini, Pagani, Dallara and Ducati.  “This heritage, outstanding skillset and unique supply chain enabled the birth of this exceptional two-seat helicopter,” highlighted Mr Benini.  

Virtual Reality and Immersive experience

Optimising state-of-the-art virtual reality technology, visitors at Private Flyer can ‘experience’ the Zefhir - flying, selecting the destination, configuration, optional colours, cockpit, etc.

105 kW Continuous Power

The Zefhir is powered by an ultra-modern turboshaft engine (gas generator and turbine), with Full Authority Digital Engine Control (FADEC), a revolution in a lightweight two-seater helicopter. Zefhir delivers pure performance at the pilot’s command.  Its powerplant has a maximum power of 180 kW (241 shp), but it is engineered to deliver constant continuous power at 105 kW (141 shp), ensuring safety and performance at all altitudes and temperatures.  The engine installation is optimized using sophisticated computational fluid dynamics.

A hover ceiling of 4,000m (13,100 ft) can be achieved at the maximum take-off weight of 600/650kg (1,322lb).  The larger of two fuel tank options allows a range of 638 km (396 miles) with 10 minutes reserve.

Complementing its headquarters in Sweden, Savback is led in the UK and Ireland by Stephen Mitchell, Head of Sales, who brings 25 years’ experience in civil aviation sales, complementing the Savback team’s experience in corporate jets, airlines and helicopters.  Savback UK is based at Nottingham Heliport.  

The UK is a significant and well-developed market for private helicopters with UK-based market intelligence company Parapex Media counting 1,159 helicopters in the locally registered fleet as of 1st April 2022, including 690 single-engine aircraft

Savback’s Chief Executive Officer Reja Savbäck commented:  “We have been very pleased with the results and progress of our focus on the UK to date.  As we rally back out of the pandemic, the timing is right to introduce the Zefhir helicopter to this discerning market, offering the ultimate in point-to-point personal travel.

“The level of luxury and safety seen in this class of helicopter is a step above every other product for the private owner/pilot in the market to date,” added Stephen Mitchell.  We are proud to be showcasing the Zefhir in the UK and I look forward to talking about its USP at Private Flyer Show. 

*  Savback Helicopters is seeking to get approval from the UK Civil Aviation Authority being in the opt out ultra-light category for helicopters (for recreational use) as already adopted by several EASA countries.

Immediately following Private Flyer, the Zefhir will be available to view at Nottingham Heliport - between 16thand 20th May, inclusive, where CURTI’s test pilot will be demonstrating the aircraft in-flight.   Savback is also looking forward to offering interested guests an in-flight experience from Nottingham Heliport – time and weather permitting.