Cicare 8
Ultralight Helicopter for Cicaré
The Cicare 8 is a two seater ultralight helicopter that integrates aeronautical heritage with industrial precision. The design features a carbon fiber semi-monocoque cabin with an organic morphology inspired by feline features to communicate agility. Its structural configuration combines a composite cockpit with a steel space frame. Key functional elements include panoramic glazing for enhanced visibility and a patented adjustable control system. The aircraft fulfills international certification standards, focusing on professional grade finishes and aerodynamic
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Cicare 8 by Indalecio Sabbioni
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Ultralight Helicopter by Indalecio Sabbioni
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Indalecio Sabbioni Cicare 8
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Indalecio Sabbioni Ultralight Helicopter
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CicaréBrand Logo
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Unique Properties
The Cicare 8 transforms aeronautical engineering into a sophisticated industrial product. The design introduces a new brand identity through a carbon fiber semi monocoque cabin that balances aggressive aesthetics with functional ergonomics. Key contributions include optimized internal volumes for comfort and expanded glazing for panoramic visibility of the skid tips. The digital workflow ensures surface continuity and high end finishes. By exposing the tubular tail the design maintains the brand DNA with an honest structural aesthetic that emphasizes lightness and agility.
Tags
Ultralight Helicopter, Helicopter, Carbon Fiber Cabin, Aeronautical Design, Two-Seater Aircraft, Industrial Design, Innovative Cockpit, Cicare Aviation, Pirincho Cicare, Indalecio Sabbioni
Production Technology
The cabin is a carbon fiber and epoxy resin semi monocoque manufactured using vacuum bagging to optimize the strength to weight ratio. The structure integrates a spatial reticulated airframe made of aeronautical sae 4130 steel. The tail boom utilizes aluminum 2024 t6 struts designed to withstand high maneuvering stresses. The design utilized a digital workflow from 3d modeling to CNC machined molds ensuring aerospace grade surface continuity and structural integrity.
Design Challenge
The main challenge was bridging a 60-year-old artisanal legacy with modern industrial design. A key creative conflict was aesthetic: I proposed a minimalist approach, exposing the iconic tubular tail to reduce weight and costs, whereas the founder sought a fluid, integrated and covered look. We had to balance visibility against structural rigidity while integrating a carbon fiber cabin with a steel frame.
Project Duration
the design process was conducted from 2013 to 2015 in saladillo buenos aires argentina. the aircraft was exhibited at major airshows including aero friedrichshafen and eaa airventure oshkosh where it received the lindbergh award for its outstanding fit and finish. in 2016 it earned the sello de buen diseno and the innovar award. a key milestone was achieved with the german ltf ulh certification making it the worlds first 600kg class ulm type certified helicopter.
Operation Flow
Access is intuitive through wide doors leading to a side by side cockpit optimized for leg comfort. Pilots interact with a unique patented adjustable control system and a state of the art instrument panel. The flight experience is defined by panoramic visibility including a specific design focus that allows viewing the skid tips from the inside for safer landings. The centrifugal clutch ensures a seamless linkage between engine and transmission providing a gradual engagement imperceptible to passengers.
Research
The research bridged artisanal excellence with industrial precision through systemic design. The initial phase involved qualitative interviews with directors engineers pilots and technicians. These insights guided the ergonomic optimization of the cabin. The methodology integrated iterative prototyping with advanced 3d modeling validated by flight tests. Results led to a carbon fiber semi monocoque cabin with structural safety and visibility of the skid tips. This research was fundamental in securing global certifications and boosting international sales.
Inspiration
the cicare 8 is inspired by the engineering of augusto cicare, translating a 60 year heritage of artisanal excellence into a sophisticated industrial product. the design finds its motive in feline facial features, where window frames resemble the alert eyes of a predator. this organic morphology creates an aggressive profile that communicates agility and establishes a unique identity. driven by market demand for side by side seating, it integrates carbon fiber and a digital workflow while maintaining the brand dna.
Project Overview
Cicare 8 Ultralight Helicopter has been a Platinum winner in the Aerospace and Aircraft Design award category in the year 2025 organized by the prestigious A' Design Award & Competition. The Platinum A' Design Award is recognized for honoring designs that stand at the forefront of creativity and innovation. It is the highest accolade bestowed by the A' Design Awards, acknowledging works that blend remarkable innovation with impactful societal contributions. These designs not only showcase exceptional artistic and technical proficiency but also highlight their creators' commitment to advancing the boundaries of art, science, design, and technology. Recipients of this award are celebrated for their role in shaping the aesthetics and trends of our time, contributing significantly to the enhancement of quality of life and promoting sustainable development.
Image Credits
For design images and photos please credit Indalecio Sabbioni.
Platinum Recognition
Indalecio Sabbioni was recognized with the coveted Platinum A' Design Award in 2026, a testament to excellence of their work Cicare 8 Ultralight Helicopter.
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