The H160 helicopter has technologies such as noise-reducing Blue Edge rotor blades, a canted Fenestron tail rotor for increased useful load, and Airbus Helicopters’ Helionix avionics suite.
Airbus Helicopters has achieved a significant milestone with the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) granting certification for its H160 helicopter. This certification is a crucial step forward in the development of the aircraft, positioning it for entry into the U.S. market. The H160 is a revolutionary medium-class rotorcraft that sets new standards in terms of safety, comfort, and environmental performance. It incorporates cutting-edge technologies such as noise-reducing Blue Edge rotor blades, a canted Fenestron tail rotor for increased useful load, and Airbus Helicopters’ Helionix avionics suite, which reduces pilot workload.
Having already received certification from the European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) in July 2020, the H160 has garnered significant interest from customers worldwide. Airbus Helicopters has received orders for over 100 H160s from customers across the globe, including more than a dozen from U.S. customers. The helicopter has already entered service in Japan, Brazil, Saudi Arabia, and Europe, accumulating an impressive 1700 flight hours.
Bruno Even, CEO of Airbus Helicopters said, “We are pleased to receive FAA certification for the H160, which is testament to many years of hard work and commitment from our teams in order to deliver this multirole helicopter to the customers in North America who have already placed their trust in the H160. This aircraft features the highest level of innovation and we are confident that its advanced capabilities, along with our strong customer support network, will solidify its position as the preferred choice for customers in the U.S.”
The H160’s versatility makes it an ideal choice for various missions, including offshore transportation for the energy industry, private and business aviation, emergency medical services, commercial passenger transport, as well as public services such as Search and Rescue and law enforcement. With its exceptional range, speed, and efficiency, the H160 offers operators a superior level of performance and flexibility.
In preparation for the H160’s entry into service, Airbus Helicopters has been actively working on plans for several years. One notable development is the addition of North America’s first H160 level D full flight simulator (FFS). Anticipated to be operational by the second half of 2025, the FFS will be located at the Helisim Simulation Center within the Airbus Helicopters, Inc. facility in Grand Prairie, Texas.
The FAA certification of the H160 not only demonstrates the aircraft’s compliance with rigorous safety standards but also positions it as a preferred choice for customers in the U.S. market. Airbus Helicopters’ strong customer support network, combined with the H160’s advanced capabilities and innovative features, further enhances its appeal.
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With its successful certifications, growing order book, and expanding global presence, the H160 solidifies Airbus Helicopters’ position as a leader in the rotorcraft industry. As the H160 continues to make strides, it promises to reshape the future of helicopter operations and contribute to advancements in safety, efficiency, and sustainability within the aviation sector.
