Airbus Helicopters and GDAT of China have inked a deal for the purchase of fifty (50) H160 helicopters. The contract was signed during French President Macron’s visit to China and is the largest single order for the H160 on the civil and para-public market since the helicopter’s launch in 2015. The H160s will be employed in various areas such as offshore transportation for oil and gas platforms, wind farms, and harbor piloting, as well as emergency medical services and other municipal public service missions. In addition, the two firms have signed a strategic cooperation agreement that covers topics such as support and services capabilities, aimed at ensuring the long-term success of the H160 in China.
“We are honouredGDAT has decided to bolster their all-Airbus fleet of 26 helicopters with the addition of 50 H160 helicopters. The H160 has been designed at the outset as a multi-mission helicopter and is, therefore, well suited to the multiple segments that lessors provide for,” according to Bruno Even, CEO of Airbus Helicopters.
GDAT is a prominent general aviation service provider in China with a focus on innovation. The company specializes in helicopter sales and leasing, maintenance and modifications, and emergency rescue flights, as well as providing other government services. Headquartered in Shanghai, the group has four wholly-owned subsidiaries across China, along with operating bases in Suzhou and Ningbo. GDAT has also established an overseas branch in London.
“This contract is a great example of the importance of economic and trade cooperation between France and China. The innovative H160 is the perfect addition to our fleet and will enable us to continue our success story on the Chinese market that began with our 21 H225 helicopters. We see a lot of potential for the H160 in China, in particular for the energy sector,” said Peter Jiang, Chairman of GDAT.
The H160 is a versatile helicopter designed to perform multiple roles, and it incorporates Airbus’ latest technological advancements. Passengers enjoy superior comfort with the use of sound-reducing Blue Edge blades, and the helicopter provides excellent external visibility for both pilots and passengers. The H160 boasts a light maintenance plan that aligns between engine and aircraft, optimizing operating costs and setting a new standard in availability. The helicopter has already received certification to fly with up to 50% sustainable aviation fuel and is powered by two of the latest Arrano engines from Safran Helicopter Engines, which offer a 15% reduction in fuel burn.
Airbus Helicopters has been a significant player in the Chinese helicopter industry for more than 50 years, and more than 300 Airbus helicopters currently fly in China, serving over 90 customers.