Airbus Helicopters and GDAT also signed a strategic cooperation agreement for support and services capabilities, among other topics, to ensure the long-term success of the H160 in China.
Airbus Helicopters has secured a major contract with GDAT, a leading helicopter lessor and operator in China, for 50 H160 helicopters. The agreement, signed during French President Macron’s visit to China, marks the largest single order for the H160 on the civil and para-public market since its unveiling in 2015. In addition to the contract, Airbus Helicopters and GDAT also signed a strategic cooperation agreement related to support and services capabilities, among other topics, to ensure the long-term success of the H160 in China.
The H160 is a multi-role helicopter that is designed to perform a range of missions, including offshore transportation for oil and gas platforms, wind farms and harbour piloting, as well as emergency medical services and other municipal public service missions. The aircraft features the latest technological innovations from Airbus and provides passengers with superior comfort, thanks to the sound-reducing Blue Edge blades and excellent external visibility that benefits both passengers and pilots. With a light maintenance plan aligned between the engine and aircraft, the H160 optimizes operating costs and offers a new standard in availability.
Commenting on the contract, Bruno Even, CEO, Airbus Helicopters said, “We are honored GDAT 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.”
GDAT is China’s leading innovative general aviation service provider, specializing in helicopter sales and leasing, maintenance and modifications, as well as emergency rescue flights and other government services. The group is headquartered in Shanghai and has four wholly-owned subsidiaries across China, as well as operating bases in Suzhou and Ningbo, and an overseas branch in London.
Peter Jiang, Chairman, GDAT said, “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.”
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Airbus Helicopters has been a key partner in the Chinese helicopter sector for over 50 years, with more than 400 Airbus helicopters currently flying over China, serving more than 90 customers. The H160 contract underscores the company’s continued commitment to the Chinese market and its focus on providing innovative, reliable and efficient solutions to meet the evolving needs of its customers.
