Piasecki Aircraft and Columbia Helicopters Partner to Deliver Upgraded Heavy-Lift Tandem Rotorcraft

Piasecki Aircraft Corporation (PiAC) and Columbia Helicopters (CHI) have announced a strategic partnership to upgrade existing Model 107-II helicopters. The new, enhanced Model 107-III configuration will be more fuel-efficient, powerful, and robust. This collaboration aims to support essential services such as emergency response, aerial firefighting, forestry, infrastructure, and defense.

Modifications and testing will occur at Piasecki’s 219,000-square-foot heliplex facility in Coatesville, Pennsylvania. Acquired from Lockheed Martin Sikorsky in 2023, this site saw hundreds of jobs lost after the closure of the S-76 and S-92 helicopter production lines. The new partnership is expected to create substantial employment opportunities in the region.

Pennsylvania Senator Bob Casey and Representative Chrissy Houlahan have championed the site's revitalization, highlighting its potential to maintain military aircraft and lead domestic aviation manufacturing. The heliplex will also serve as CHI's new field site, establishing an FAA Part 145 Repair Station.

John Piasecki, CEO of Piasecki Aircraft, expressed excitement about the collaboration, noting its importance in advancing tandem rotor helicopter technology. Columbia Helicopters CEO David Balevic emphasized the new Model 107-III’s transformative potential in the heavy-lift helicopter market, citing its enhanced capabilities and versatility.