Tour a Helicopter Factory

What does "manufacturing" bring to your mind? Machining and welding, bolting and cutting? In Marianna, FL, all those things are happening and more, but the end result is more exciting than most products! At the Marianna Airport, Safari Helicopter is building a two-seat helicopter kit, literally from the ground up. The fuselage is being welded, parts are being machined, rotor blades are being fabricated, transmissions are being assembled, and all the small parts that make up a helicopter are being prepared for shipment. Who would have imagined that something so interesting would be happening in Marianna! FLIGHT Taking by Delane Baker

Originating in New York state, evolving in northern Canada, and maturing in Marianna, the Safari has been flying since the 1950s. First introduced as a Helicom, then identified as the Commuter, the name was changed to Commuter II with the addition of a second seat. The incorporation of the round "bubble" windshield from the iconic Bell 47 prompted the name Baby Belle. Renamed one last time, the Safari is now known around the world.

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Because the helicopter is designed to be assembled at home, it is classified by the Federal Aviation Administration as an "experimental, amateur-built" aircraft. While some "experimental" aircraft are just that – an experiment – the Safari proudly points to an exceptional record of safety and durability. The team at Safari gladly demonstrates the process of manufacturing to the same high standards as "certified" aircraft.

Rotorcraft enthusiasts from around the world have embraced the Safari to provide them with the thrill and excitement of vertical flight. Intended for personal use, the Safari is a relatively inexpensive way to fulfil the dream held by many – flying in a way that can only be done in a helicopter.

With a continuous program of improvements in materials, quality, and assembly, the Safari has become the standard against which all other experimental class helicopters are measured. Today, it has taken another "giant leap" with the introduction of the Safari 500 model. This new style incorporates the proven drivetrain, controls, and geometry of the well-known Safari 400, with the sleek lines of a carbon fiber fuselage.

Its growth continues as certification of the Safari is explored to allow its use in flight schools around the world. While this is a lengthy

process, early evaluation indicates that the Safari is well suited for certification. When complete, sales of the Safari for flight training at commercial schools will even further increase the need for a highly skilled workforce.

The engineers at Safari believe that aviation provides many valuable benefits to our region and to our world. This part of Florida is developing a robust aviation-focused manufacturing sector, providing excellent work opportunities for new or experienced workers. In addition, several community colleges in the region are providing a clear path to the credentials that lead to high level jobs in aircraft repair and maintenance. Other colleges are teaching the latest manufacturing techniques, leading their graduates to specialized fields in aviation and other industries. Local Civil Air Patrol leaders encourage young people to become interested in aviation in its many forms.

Visitors are welcome to the factory to see the helicopters, to judge the quality and care put into the manufacturing process, and to explore their own dreams of vertical flight.

Call 850-482-4141 to schedule your visit, and be sure to take the kids!