Melbourne-based logistics and supply chain company Linfox Group has taken delivery of Australia’s first Airbus H160 helicopter, introducing the next-generation medium twin-engine rotorcraft to the country.
The H160 will support Linfox Group’s business and corporate aviation requirements, operating across Australia’s urban centres and regional destinations.
Linfox Aviation has selected an eight-passenger configuration for the helicopter, compared with the H160’s certification for up to 12 passengers. The configuration provides passengers with access to the aircraft’s large windows, spacious cabin and onboard technology.
Linfox founder Lindsay Fox said the company’s decision to introduce the H160 reflects its focus on safety, operational performance and advanced technology.
Airbus Helicopters Executive Vice President of Global Business Olivier Michalon said the delivery demonstrates the H160’s suitability for a range of operating environments and represents the aircraft’s entry into the Australian market.
The aircraft was prepared for local service by Pacific Crown Helicopters (PCH), a Part 145-certified maintenance organisation and long-standing Airbus Helicopters partner. PCH will provide support to meet applicable airworthiness requirements.
The H160 is designed for multiple roles, including private and business aviation, offshore transportation, emergency medical services, search and rescue, law enforcement and military operations.
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The helicopter features Airbus’ Helionix avionics suite, which is designed to provide intuitive flight controls, enhanced situational awareness and reduced pilot workload.
Powered by Arrano engines, the H160 offers up to an 18% reduction in fuel consumption compared with previous-generation engines in its class, according to Airbus. The helicopter is also certified to operate with fuel blends containing up to 50% Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF).
Its Blue Edge main rotor blades are designed to reduce the external acoustic footprint by up to 50% compared with previous-generation helicopters. Airbus has also reduced the H160’s official empty weight, increasing payload capacity by 100 kg or extending range by up to 60 nautical miles.
The Australian delivery adds to a global H160 fleet of more than 70 helicopters, which Airbus said collectively recorded more than 14,000 flight hours over the past year.
