Monumental deal between Airbus Helicopters and China GDAT brings a fleet of 50 innovative H160 helicopters to the region, promising to revolutionise rotorcraft operations and enhance the nation’s aviation capabilities.
One of the world leaders in the aviation industry, Airbus, announced today that it has signed a historic agreement with China for the supply of 50 H160 helicopters, a state-of-the-art rotorcraft that sets new standards for performance, safety, and environmental sustainability. The contracted deal, valued at over $1 billion, symbolises a strengthening of ties between Airbus Helicopters and China while simultaneously highlighting the growing demand for cutting-edge helicopter technology in the region. Since the unveiling of the H160 in 2015, the current agreement will stand to be the largest single order of H160’s, paying testament to the accelerating success of Airbus Helicopters in the aviation and mobility industry.
The H160 helicopter is a revolutionary rotorcraft that boasts unparalleled performance, efficiency, and safety features. With its sleek design, advanced avionics, and reduced noise levels and by 50% and accounts for 50% of sustainable fuel compared to current-generation helicopters, the H160 is poised to redefine the global helicopter market. The aircrafts will be primarily associated with the energy sector (offshore transportation for oil and gas platforms and wind farms), health and medical sector (for emergency medical services) and public service missions. This groundbreaking agreement with China not only demonstrates Airbus Helicopters’ commitment to innovation and excellence but also marks a significant milestone in the expansion of the company’s global footprint.
Under contracted agreement, Airbus Helicopters will deliver a fleet of H160 helicopters to China, where they will be deployed into a variety of social systems, including emergency medical services, law enforcement, and VIP transportation. The helicopters will be assembled at Airbus Helicopters’ state-of-the-art facility in China, further bolstering the company’s presence in the region.
Guillaume Faury, CEO of Airbus, said, “We are thrilled to announce this landmark agreement with China, which not only showcases the exceptional capabilities of the H160 helicopter but also strengthens our partnership with one of the world’s most dynamic aviation markets. We look forward to working closely with our Chinese counterparts to ensure the successful integration of the H160 into their operations and to contribute to the continued growth of the rotorcraft industry in the region.”
This contracted deal between Airbus Helicopters and China emphasises the increasing global demand for advanced helicopter technology as a form of mobility, which in certain social spheres such as critical medical transportation and mission oriented rescues are crucial to societal needs.