Boeing has teamed with a Canadian company to develop a commercial heavy-lift aircraft that combines helicopter rotor systems with a neutrally bouyant airship.

Designed to lift a 40-ton slung payload over a 200-mile range, the JHL-40 is being aimed initially at transporting heavy equipment for the oil industry in the Canadian Arctic and Alaska, avoiding the need to build roads in remote areas.

Calgary, Alberta-based SkyHook International has contracted Boeing's rotorcraft division in Philadelphia to design the JHL-40 and build two production prototypes for certification in Canada and the U.S. The aircraft is expected to fly in 2012.

The JHL-40 will use a helium-filled airship envelope to carry the aircraft's empty weight, and four Chinook helicopter rotor systems to lift the payload. Four thrusters will be used to maneuver the 300-foot-long, fly-by-wire vehicle. Boeing plans to make extensive use of commercial off-the-shelf components to reduce upfront costs, says Progam Manager Ken Laubish.

Privately owned SkyHook is funding Boeing's work and will be the sole customer for the aircraft, says President and CEO Pete Jess. The company plans to establish an operating entity offering heavylift services to the oil and gas, forestry, mining and construction industries. SkyHook sees a near-term market for 50-60 aircraft, he says.

Boeing completed a feasibility study for SkyHook in 2007 and is working toward a configuration freeze in October, says Laubish. The company is working through a series of risk-reduction steps, says Laubish. Development work began in March and is scheduled to take 59 months, with a committment to build the first aircraft expected at around the 45-month mark, he says.

Artist's concept: Joe Naujokas/Boeing