Airbus has signed a contract with Global Vectra Helicorp Limited (GVHL), India’s largest private sector rotorcraft operator, to deliver an H145 helicopter in a multi-utility configuration. It includes the option to deliver a second H145 helicopter in a similar configuration. The first aircraft will be delivered by mid-2020 and the second one in 2020.
“We very much look forward to introducing the H145 to our fleet for multiple reasons: It has the highest standards of safety and state of the art technology and comes with excellent levels of customisation and comfort,” said A J Baker, CEO of GVHL.
The helicopter’s eight-seat, multirole configuration will allow the operator to quickly change the aircraft for a variety of missions, from VIP transport and offshore operations to emergency medical services.
“India’s terrain and vastness make it an ideal helicopter country. Helicopters can save lives and change lives in India – be it as air ambulances, air rescuers or for offshore activities. And Airbus has a range of helicopters that meets and exceeds every requirement – which is why we are the leader in India’s civil helicopter market.,” said Anand E Stanley, President and Managing Director of Airbus India & South Asia.
The helicopter provides a spacious cabin that can seat up to eight passengers. The H145 features Airbus Helicopters’ Helionix avionics, including a 4-axis digital autopilot for reduced pilot workload. A Fenestron enclosed tail rotor dramatically reduces noise levels. The Turbomeca Arriel2E engines, with dual channel full-authority digital engine control (FADEC), generate 894 shaft horsepower for take-off and allow improved hover and one-engine inoperative performance as well as increased maximum gross weight capability.
“The H145 is a best-in-class product that serves a gamut of purposes. And the changeover time for the different missions is minimal. This is what makes the H145 a winner worldwide,” said Ashish Saraf, Head of Airbus Helicopters, India & South Asia.