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Made in Tanzania: Will the helicopter take to the skies?

The Mechanical and Engineering Department at Tanzania’s Arusha Technical College (ATC) is hoping it can meet the Civil Aviation Authority’s regulations, and a prototype helicopter being developed by the Engineering department can soon take to the skies.

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There have been a number of aviation enthusiasts across Africa who have dreamt of taking to the skies over the years. With sheer determination these enthusiasts have assembled helicopters and their efforts have been nothing short of inspirational.

However, the amateur projects have remained just a dream owing to the stringent civil aviation and airworthiness regulations. While noteworthy, the helicopters assembled by these aviation enthusiasts have not been certified to fly.

Read: Malawi’s Felix Kambwiri builds helicopter

The Mechanical and Engineering Department at Tanzania’s Arusha Technical College (ATC) is hoping it can satisfy the Civil Aviation Authority’s regulations, and a helicopter being developed by the department can take to the skies.

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Read: Tanzania’s Civil Aviation Authority Regulations

The prototype model is a two seater aircraft, which uses parts manufactured in Germany such as its Volkswagen engine, and motors. Engineer Mjema reportedly said the project is seeking approval from the aviation authority to, “complete the most sensitive part of the helicopter — mounting the main rotor,” after which the helicopter will be ready for trials.

The project is half-way through and the chopper is expected to be fully operational in 2018, barring any delays and drawbacks.

Source: Daily News

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