Airbus Helicopters has signed a contract with GDAT, one of China’s leading helicopter lessors and operators, for the purchase of 50 H160 helicopters. The deal, announced during French President Macron’s recent visit to China, represents the largest single order for the H160 on the civil and parapublic market since the helicopter was unveiled in 2015.
The H160 is a multi-role helicopter capable of performing a wide range of missions, and integrates Airbus’ latest technological innovations. With its light maintenance plan and optimized operating costs, the H160 offers a new standard in availability. The helicopter provides passengers with superior comfort thanks to sound-reducing Blue Edge blades and superb external visibility that benefits both passengers and pilots.
GDAT will use the H160s for offshore transportation for oil and gas platforms, wind farms, and harbor piloting, as well as emergency medical services and other municipal public service missions. The company 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.
“We are honored GDAT has decided to bolster their all-Airbus fleet of 26 helicopters with the addition of 50 H160 helicopters,” said Bruno Even, CEO of Airbus 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.”
The companies also signed a strategic cooperation agreement related to support and service capabilities, amongst other things, to ensure the long-term success of the H160 in China. Airbus Helicopters has been a key partner in the Chinese helicopter sector for over 50 years, with more than 300 Airbus helicopters flying over China, serving over 90 customers.
Peter Jiang, Chairman of 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.”
The H160 is already certified to fly with as much as 50% sustainable aviation fuel and is powered by two of the latest Arrano engines from Safran Helicopter Engines that offer a 15% reduction in fuel burn. With its cutting-edge technology and environmentally-friendly features, the H160 is an attractive choice for companies looking to reduce their carbon footprint.
Airbus Helicopters has a strong presence in China, with over 300 helicopters in operation, serving more than 90 customers. The company’s commitment to innovation and sustainability has made it a trusted partner in the Chinese helicopter industry.
The partnership between Airbus Helicopters and GDAT marks a significant milestone in the Chinese helicopter industry. With the purchase of 50 H160 helicopters, GDAT is poised to expand its operations in the offshore transportation sector and other key industries. The strategic cooperation agreement signed between the companies ensures that the H160 will be well-supported and maintained for years to come, further strengthening Airbus Helicopters’ position in the Chinese market.
