Paramount and AAL Group complete first phase of composite blade testing for Mi-type helicopters.

In a noteworthy milestone, Paramount, a global aerospace and technology company, along with its strategic partner, AAL Group Ltd, has accomplished the initial testing phase of their innovative composite helicopter blades designed for Mi-type helicopters.

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The new composite blades offer operators a range of benefits, including the ability to replace individual damaged blades, rather than the entire set  (Picture source: Twitter account of defensehere)

These composite blades, showcasing superior technical attributes when compared to traditional metal blades, have been subjected to rigorous testing in the UAE under the supervision of AAL Group Composite during the Dubai Airshow 2023. The collaborative efforts between AAL's expert team and Paramount will continue, aiming to achieve full qualification for these groundbreaking blades. This accomplishment marks a significant stride toward the planned commencement of composite blade production at AAL's Maintenance, Repair, and Overhaul (MRO) facilities in Sharjah, UAE.

The new composite blades offer operators a range of benefits, including the ability to replace individual damaged blades, rather than the entire set. This approach ensures cost-efficiency and minimal downtime. In case of damage, quick on-site repairs can be conducted, leading to shorter turnaround times.

Building upon their strategic partnership announcement on February 21, 2023, Paramount and AAL Group remain dedicated to enhancing the capabilities of Mi-type helicopters not only in Africa but also across the globe. Paramount's extensive experience in composite blade design and development has resulted in rotor blades that offer extended operational life and cost-effectiveness compared to conventional metal blades.

Steve Griessel, Paramount Global CEO, commented: "The integration of our advanced composite blades on AAL’s Mi helicopter is a tangible demonstration of our commitment to providing innovative solutions in the aerospace industry. These blades represent a significant leap forward in terms of performance, durability, and cost-effectiveness, and we are excited to showcase them at the Dubai Airshow."

AAL Group Ltd., with over two decades of experience in servicing Mi-type helicopters, brings invaluable expertise and insight to this partnership. Olga Martyshchenko, CEO of AAL Group, expressed enthusiasm about the progress made since the initial partnership announcement: "Our collaboration with Paramount is yielding impressive results. The new composite blades are a game-changer, and we are proud to have them integrated into our Mi helicopter for the world to see at the Dubai Airshow."

The Dubai Airshow provides a global platform for Paramount and AAL Group to demonstrate the capabilities of their Mi-type helicopter solutions to an international audience. Additionally, it serves as an opportunity to engage in discussions about the future of aerospace innovation and the pivotal role of strategic partnerships in driving progress.

Griessel added, "Paramount’s presence in the UAE, in partnership with AAL, exemplifies our commitment to building global networks and supporting the defense and aerospace capabilities of countries worldwide. We are excited about the future and look forward to continuing our fruitful partnership with AAL Group."

Paramount initiated the development of composite main rotor blades in 2006 to fulfill a customer requirement. These composite blades are meticulously designed to match the functional and performance capabilities of metal blades, allowing for replacement without modifying the aircraft platform.

With an operational life of up to 20,000 hours and infinite shelf life, these composite blades, in the event of damage, can be replaced individually, leading to substantial cost savings over time. In light of current challenges related to the supply and delivery of main rotor blades, the production of composite blades offers a dependable source to sustain ongoing operations, ensuring security and defense support.