The Trusted All-Mission Workhorse

© Anthony Pecchi to AirbusWorld Welcome SERVICES flightvertical reinvents CityAirbus LIMITS NO delivery first for the H160: Countdown MISSION workhorse all-mission The trusted AIRBUS HELICOPTERS N o. 119-APRIL2020

ROTOR - No. 119 - APRIL 2020 2 PORTFOLIO 30 million.#thanks100Millionto allourcustomerswhohavemadeitpossibletoreach thishistoricmilestone. From amissionstandpointthough,thecivilsidehasaccumulated 70millionfl ight hours andthemilitaryside A milestone tomakeyourhead spin!TheEcureuil family alonehasloggedatotalof35millionfl ighthours. The Airbushelicoptersfl eet reached the100million fl ighthourmarkatthebeginningofMarch 2020. 100 MILLIONFLIGHTHOURS

© Anthony Pecchi for early2021. this summer, with athird planned are scheduledfordelivery later transport. Two ofthehelicopters services, andpassenger launches, emergency medical including securityduringrocket Florida foravarietyofmissions, of Kennedy SpaceCenterin The H135swillbeoperatedout Helicopters. space programme andAirbus ever partnershipbetweentheUS helicopters, markingthefi rst- placed anorder forthree H135 Space Administration(NASA)has The NationalAeronautics and H135 HELICOPTERS FOR THREEAIRBUS NASA PLACESORDER © DR for the nexteightyears. contract forDRF’s entire fl eet a full supportparts-by-the-hour DRF’s HCare smartcontract, booked in2019,alsorenews H145 intheworld.Thecontract, biggest operatorofthefi ve-bladed to 35 helicopters, makingthemthe medical services(HEMS)provider German helicopteremergency will bringtheH145fl eetofthe to thefi ve-bladedversion.This the operator’s current 20 H145s three H135sandtheretrofi tof for thepurchase of15newH145s, Luftrettung havesignedacontract Airbus HelicoptersandDRF AND H135 FLEET EXPANDS ITSH145 DRF LUFTRETTUNG © C. Keller maintenance cycles,etc.). operational phases(engineshut-down, sequences andtooptimisecertain the reliability oftheenginestart-up generator systemaimstoincrease by SafranAerosystems. This starter- for AirbusHelicoptersanddesigned start-up systemspecifi cally developed enables theuseofanewelectric With powerof2500shp,theAneto-1A reducing theenvironmental impact. achieving theambitionoffl yingfast while as theengineremains akey elementin in thedevelopmentofdemonstrator February 2020.Thisisanimportantstep tests atSafranHelicopterEnginesin demonstrator, underwentitsfi rstbench installed inthehigh-speedRACER The Aneto-1Aengine,whichwillbe BANK CONCLUSIVE CAMPAIGN ON THEENGINE RACER: FIRSTTRIAL © PAD Innovat ive

ROTOR - No. 119 - APRIL 2020 3 ROTOR - No. 119 - APRIL 2020 4 Co PORTFOLIO existing H225Mfl eet,bringingitsAirbus fl eetto18units. training. Theywillcomplementthe RoyalThaiAirForce’s an arrayoftrainingmissions,including ab-initiofl ight the RoyalThaiAirForce, theseH135swillbeusedfor The fi rstmilitarytraining helicopterseverordered by as partofitspilottrainingenhancementprogramme. military traininghelicoptersfrom theRoyalThaiAirForce, Airbus Helicoptershasreceived anorder forsixH135 FOR MILITARY TRAINING ROYAL THAIAIRFORCEORDERSH135s operators makesenseoftheirdataforaddedbusinessvalue. helicopters ecosysteminwhichdatafrom disparatesources isshared andanalysed,helping Airbus Helicoptershasdoubled.Thisprogress advancesAirbus’creation of aconnected In justoveroneyear, thenumberofhelicoptersnowsharingfl ightandmaintenancedatawith MORE THAN1,000 ROTORCRAFT NOW SHARING DATA WITHAIRBUSHELICOPTERS nnected

© DR H135s with Helionix. and theFAA in 2020 andcanberetrofi ttedonall conditions. The new AGWwillbe certifi edbyEASA endurance by up to40minutes understandard used to extend therangebyupto75NMor the weight andusefulload.Thisincrease canalsobe benefi tfrom a120kg(265lb)increased takeoff grossH135 helicopterswiththenewalternate weight FOR THEH135 NEW ALTERNATE GROSSWEIGHT

© Jonny Caroll © Eric Raz Engines. TheFrench Navywillstartoperatingthesehelicopters in2022foraperiodoftenyears. and rescue missionsthrough apartnershipbetweenAirbusHelicopters,Babcock, andSafranHelicopter The French ArmamentGeneralDirectorate (DGA)istosupplyfourH160sthe French Navyforsearch FOUR H160s FORTHEFRENCHNAVY’S SEARCH AND RESCUEMISSIONS

ROTOR - No. 119 - APRIL 2020 5 CONTENTS

08 28 PANORAMA NO LIMITS Airbus Helicopters news CityAirbus reinvents and events by the numbers 09 vertical fl ight FEATURED

ARTICLES © Dianne Bond 18 30 UP ABOVE The trusted MISSION An NH90 from the FAMET all-mission workhorse The H135 in Australia Bruno Even, CEO of Airbus Helicopters carrying out a training mission “Because we know how crucial 32 your work is, all Airbus Helicopters teams 20 © Anthony Pecchi SERVICES MISSION Welcome to AirbusWorld have been mobilised to preserve Help from the heavens with the H135 in Spain the continuity of our missions.”

For several weeks now, we have been facing to preserve the continuity of our missions to the 22 the coronavirus COVID-19 pandemic. It has best of our ability in the current circumstances MISSION affected the whole world and is progressing in order to support your operations. H160: Countdown rapidly in certain countries. We know that But we also know there are many other for the fi rst delivery many of you are fi ghting to protect the customers whose activities are being cut back population against the pandemic right now drastically due to the COVID-19 crisis. There with your helicopters. We have seen SAR and are operators that have practically stopped EMS services tirelessly ferrying patients; armed fl ying. Our desire is to be by your side more 26 forces mobilising their helicopters to alleviate than ever, listening and fi nding solutions, MISSION Communication Director: Yves the burden on overfl owing hospitals; rotorcraft together, that will help you weather this storm. Barillé (Publication Director), Editor The H175 in the North Sea in Chief: Belén Morant (contact. transporting fi rst aid supplies and police Because that is the only way to emerge [email protected]), Director of photography: Jérôme helicopters patrolling to ensure we all comply victorious from this crisis: united. The current Deulin, Translation: Klein Wolf Peters GmbH, Airbus Translation Services; Amplexor. Published by: with governmental confi nement measures. circumstances show us to what extent the Printed by: SPI, N° ISSN 1169-9515 (Copyright Airbus Helicopters 2020, all The well-being of the population is, without world today is global and interdependent. 6 rights reserved). Airbus Helicopters’ logo and the 7 names of its products and services are registered a doubt, the priority of each and every one If we can gain something good from all this, trademarks. Magazine printed on Triple Star, paper originating from sustainable forests. of us at this time. it will be precisely the solidarity that so many On behalf of everyone here at Airbus people around the world are showing. Helicopters, I take this opportunity to send On behalf of all of us at Airbus Helicopters, our gratitude and encouragement to all of I thank you for your loyalty and confi dence, you fi ghting on the front line against the virus. both in good times and the diffi cult times that Because we know how crucial your work is, all we are currently experiencing. Please take For more information Follow us on Join us on Follow us on

ROTOR - N o. 119 APRIL 2020 www.airbus.com/Helicopters twitter/AirbusHeli facebook/AirbusHelicopters youtube/AirbusHelicopters Airbus Helicopters teams have been mobilised good care of yourself and those close to you. ROTOR - N o. 119 APRIL 2020 ROTOR - No. 119 - APRIL 2020 8 PANORAMA The JapanCoastGuard hasordered 3,093 Flight hours logged in 2019 with Flight hoursloggedin2019with 3,015,100 13 H225s 13 bringing theirH225fl eetto13. Airbus helicoptersworldwide two more H225helicopters, The fi rstparts-by-the-hour including 97armedforces using Airbushelicopters, YEARS OFPBH 35 yearsagoin1985. contract wassigned in 152countriesare 35 35 OPERATORS worldwide. FTD Level 3byEASA. both achieving FFSBand the H225/H225M, N3/N3+ aswell simulators forthe AS365 houses twofull-flight (AHSC) inMalaysia Simulation Centre Helicopters The Airbus operating in Malaysia. full-flight simulators 2 dual-qualified launch customer, Microfl ite,whichoffers A newACH135wasdelivered in2019 to Melbourne-based operator and operatorand to Melbourne-based Airbus Helicopters was the leader Airbus Helicopterswastheleader in the civil and parapublic market in thecivilandparapublicmarket with a54%ofthemarketshare. 1st ACH IN THEPACIFIC REGION luxury charters inAustralia. MARKET SHARE MARKET SHARE 54% 1,350 H125/AS350 H125/AS350 AIRBUS HELICOPTERS AIRBUS HELICOPTERS helicopters performaerial 10.6 millionfl ighthours. and haveaccumulated 27 H145 Italy are confi gured FLYING INITALY for EMS missions. Airbus helicopters work intheworld, territory there are in LatinAmerica. 22 of 27 H145 in 22 of27H145in 53 EMS bases. Over the Italian Over theItalian 1,600 1,600 are fl ying

© Anthony Pecchi U Versatile. Powerful. The adjectives that attach themselves to the H225 have come The trustedall-missionworkhorse they could equally be said about the H225’s current undertakings in civil work. to defi ne more than the operational capabilities of this heavy helicopter; in the oilandgasindustry. as much asitsruggednessandpower, itintoafi thatquicklyturned xture it was theH225’s abilitytocarry19passengersandits600-NM range, Used inavarietyofmissionsfrom fi refi ghtingtosearch and rescue(SAR), FEATURED ARTICLES Article: Heather Couthaud

ROTOR - No. 119 - APRIL 2020 9 FEATURED ARTICLES

3 Fast forward to today. With the oil and gas industry in the throes of a downturn, the H225 has taken © A. © A. Pecchi the opportunity to reposition itself to conquer new markets and equally demanding mission segments, demonstrating just how versatile this civil helicopter really is. ABOUT THE H225 CHALLENGING WORK IN NEW SEGMENTS While the H225 is still present in the oil and gas industry, particularly in Asia and Latin America with Capacity: 1 or 2 pilots and 19 seats 18 H225s in the region, it is fi nding itself bought, or 28 troop seats reconfi gured, and reassigned to challenging work in other segments – some completely new – thanks Range: 600 NM to its versatility and immediate availability. Hoist: 4,750 kg external load Of 118 H225s previously employed in oil and gas Cruise speed: operations, 58 have been signed to reallocation 262 km/h contracts to reconfi gure them for aerial work, utility, MTOW: 11,000 kg search and rescue, and military activities. Thirty-one are in service today. In addition, more than 30 are in negotiation for similar contracts.

These repurposed H225s are destined for new © A. Pecchi

customers the world over: 21 aircraft are intended 1: Jesús Lucas for the Ukraine and 22 for the US – where one was MISSION MAKEOVERS Ayuso, H225 winch recently put to use in the Hurricane Dorian relief Armed Forces for passenger transport, the training The H225 repurposing market is operator for SAR effort in the Bahamas, through operator Air Center of special operations forces, vertical replenishment characterised by short-term opportunities operations. 1 requiring reactivity on the part of Airbus. Helicopters. Others are in operation with the US and casualty evacuation missions. Other H225s 2: There are usually are destined for China, Iceland and Spain for SAR, The turnaround time is often demanding, with 360 people working coast guard and other parapublic duties. customers expecting to receive their aircraft in the Super Puma within a few months of solidifying an order. fi nal assembly line in Marignane, A SOLUTION FOR ANY NEED “In order to meet these expectations, H225/H225M we often proactively launch modifi cations France. 2 The explanation for the H225’s rebound lies in BY THE NUMBERS to an aircraft in advance, in anticipation the helicopter’s ability to suit any need. Beyond 3: Babcock has of the coming sale. These modifi cations two H225s for the scope of oil and gas operations, it has made entail fi tting the H225 with new mission • Around 230 H225 SAR operations inroads in the civil market thanks to its heavy-lift equipment, enabling the aircraft and H225Ms fl ying in Galicia, in Spain: capacity (4,750 kg external load), all-weather to perform its future mission,” says one in Coruña, today aptitude and fast cruise speed (262 km/h). Christoph Zammert, Executive Vice which began • The majority in Europe, A 2,270-litre water cannon was developed to President of Customer Support & Services operations in Latin America and 2014, and another aid in fi refi ghting operations, while private and at Airbus Helicopters. Southeast Asia in Santiago governmental transport and SAR also fi gure among Different types of retrofi ts already de Compostela • 29 orders for its frequent civil duties. completed include SAR retrofi ts, utility since 2018. 10 the Super Puma (MPAI), cargo sling, blade folding, winches, 11 family in 2019, weight-saving kits, FAA conversions, The H225’s recovery also owes much to its up from 17 in 2018 and blade de-icing. In some cases, Airbus unmatched availability. Among in-service oil and • 700,000 fl ight hours Helicopters has turned around a new gas H225s, a 95% availability rate is the norm. aircraft in as little as three months. This translates to more aircraft fl ying than ever, as Supporting new customers once they attested by the H225 family’s 20% increase in fl ight have received their new aircraft is also a hours during 2019, 44,300 in total. key success factor. Around 75% of the repurposed H225 fl eet in service is covered by an HCare global support contract. ROTOR - N o. 119 APRIL 2020 ROTOR - N o. 119 APRIL 2020 © Airbus Helicopters FEATURED ARTICLES

units (8x10 inches, the largest ones in this aircraft HOW DO YOU ENVISION THE FUTURE “We will category) with enhanced high resolution, an OF THE PROGRAMME? still be improved electro-optical system, digital map and M.M.: We have taken strong industrial manufacturing situational awareness display, along with many commitments to ensure the ramp up of the H225s in other improvements. programme. In September 2018 we launched 2030.” Super The civil version also comes with a new 19-seat the construction of a third assembly line at our arrangement with two more forward-facing seats, Marignane site, following the fl exible models of our Michel Macia, Head of the Super Puma enhanced TCAS II traffi c collision avoidance other FALs so that it will be able to accommodate programme system coupled with highly appreciated and production of both the H215 and H225. We Puma: recognised digital dual duplex 4-axis autopilot for started out from scratch, but today this new line improved operational safety. brings together 360 production personnel, all H225s satisfy the most demanding public the support functions essential for its success, service and search and rescue missions thanks and assembles eight aircraft in parallel. A to autopilot upper SAR modes, an installation for In keeping with our new industrial strategy, fl ight in icing conditions, a modern electro-optical the aircraft’s subassemblies are manufactured system, digital moving map, and an effi cient SAR at centres of excellence before being assembled cabin layout, with internal fuel best in class long in full in Marignane. The FAL also benefi ts from range capability. All versions come with a cockpit a digital shopfl oor environment and connected

presence © KOT ILLUSTRATIONS and tail boom camera for greater boarding visibility tools such as HoloLens for digital mock ups. In all, from the cockpit. I can say we are truly investing in this programme.

into WHAT IS THE H225’S FUTURE COMMERCIALLY? Michel Macia: We are confi dent that the H225 has quite a number of years still ahead of it. 2050 It has proven to be a very versatile aircraft, as witnessed by its repurposing activity, in which half of the aircraft stored after the oil and gas crisis are now with new owners. The recent continued success of the Super Puma in terms of sales gives us confi dence that there is still a lot of growth The H225 is at the to be seen for the H225, as well as its military heart of a strategy counterpart, the H225M. We believe the aircraft will still be fl ying well into that involves the the 2050s and that we will still be manufacturing entire Super Puma them in 2030. This is why we continue to discuss future upgrade options with our customers, to family. Rotor talks to bring current aircraft up to date with greater 12 13 Michel Macia, Head performance, connectivity and mission capability. of the Super Puma CAN YOU TELL US MORE ABOUT THESE programme at Airbus FUTURE UPGRADES? Helicopters. M.M.: Among other improvements, we are currently developing and qualifying a new glass cockpit for the H225M, which should bring ergonomics and situational awareness to the

fl ight crew. New avionics include four large display © Anthony Pecchi ROTOR - N o. 119 APRIL 2020 ROTOR - N o. 119 APRIL 2020 FEATURED ARTICLES

All in a day’s work

More than 300 H225/H225Ms have swimmers, while the fl ight crew benefi t been built so far, reaching more than from SAR modes with search patterns 700,000 fl ight hours around the world. and an automatic transition to hover. Today, this aircraft is used to carry out The Japan Coast Guard operates nine operators’ most demanding missions. H225s and two AS332s for security, A closer look. coastal activities and disaster relief, relying on the H225’s all weather Aerial work: the versatile heavy conditions. lift solution The H225’s heavy-lift capacity (4.75 Private and governmental tonnes) is an advantage in aerial transport: exceptional comfort work, while a real time display of The H225 can accommodate up power margins and a top-fl ight vehicle to 11 passengers in exceptional monitoring system aid pilots during comfort. Selected by heads of state critical moments. With a unique and governments for its outstanding endurance capacity, the H225 is qualities, its attributes include a high the only class-C certifi ed helicopter cruise speed, low sound and very low for hook operations. vibration levels (double active vibration reduction control systems), and cabin Fireﬁ ghting: staying space. on the ﬁ re longer The H225’s extensive customisations The H225’s extra-long range (>600 include a cabin featuring one or two NM) is a benefi t in getting to the fi re, lounges, large armchairs, a foldable and staying long enough to help put table, galley, toilet unit, and a wide the fl ames out. Equipment include selection of refi ned materials. a belly tank, belly water cannon, water bombing kits, or the Simplex H225M: the combat-proven Aerospace SkyCannon, perfectly suited helicopter to fi ght fi res in metropolitan areas. As a true multi-purpose and versatile Besides battling fi res, the H225 can military asset, the H225M enables also transport 19 fi refi ghters to and military forces to deploy wherever from the scene, as well as reconfi gure and whenever needed. Operating to other missions in fi res’ off-season, both from ships and from land, even including passenger transport. in icing conditions, this helicopter has 14 15 an all-weather capability supported Search and rescue: the all-weather by night vision goggle compatibility. long-range solution Its outstanding 700 NM range can Among its search and rescue features, be extended with air-to-air or hover a long cabin allows room for rescue in-fl ight refuelling capabilities. ROTOR - N o. 119 APRIL 2020 ROTOR - N o. 119 APRIL 2020 © Dianne Bond 16 ROTOR - No. 119 - APRIL 2020 IN THEIRWORDS and external cargoslingcapability,and external advancedautopilot system response andensures oursuccessfulrateofrescue missions, “The keyadvantagesoftheH225are itslargerpayloadcapacity China Rescue and Salvage of Ministry ofTransportationChina Rescue andSalvageofMinistry China cruise exploration,andforest fi refi ghtingbyfullyleveragingthe and search andrescue mode,whichenableustohaveafast search andrescue for islands, highways,naturaldisasters, We willproactively explore ouroperationalcapabilities on Director oftheNorthSeaNo.1FlyingRescueTeam, especially forlargescalesearch andrescue missions. outstanding performanceofthe H225inChina.” CUSTOMERS TALK ABOUT THE H225 Wang Zhenfeng,

© Patrick Penna © Patrick Penna Rescue and Salvage of Ministry ofTransportationRescue andSalvageofMinistry China Director oftheSouthSeaNo.1FlyingRescueTeam, China ChenGuoquan, standards amongpilotsand technicians.” both ontheoretical training andupgradingpractical the training,wehaveestablishedacomprehensive system and 8-yearinspectioncapabilitiesfortheH225.Regarding the H225overtenyearsandobtained1,200-hourinspection fi refi ghting.Intermsofmaintenance,wehavebeenoperating offshore oilandgasplatforms,airexploration,forest and rescue intheharshweather oftyphoons,aswellfor missions, includinglowaltitudehoistingonthesea,search We enhancedouroperational capabilitiesforvarious of othermediumandlightrotorcraft andfi xed wingaircraft. choice forasoundairsearch andrescue fl eet withacombination endurance range.Asaheavyhelicopter, theH225isagood excellent autopilotsystem,strong payloadcapacity, andlonger various outstandingfeatures, includinghighpowermargin, requirements foroffshore search andrescue missionswithits civil helicoptersintheworld.TheH225canfulfi lldemanding As amature helicopter, theH225isoneofmostadvanced and oilexploration. search andrescue bothforlandandoffshore, aircruising, “We’re operatingtheH225forvariousmissions,including that waseasilysupportableandcouldcarryevenmore operations. TheH225isakeyplayerinthisdiversifi cation. capabilities such as external cargo hooks, an external hoist hoist cargohooks,anexternal capabilities suchasexternal Thanks totheavailabilityoftheseaircraft duetothedecline missions thathadpreviously onlybeenpossibleformilitary evacuation roles, fi refi ghtingutility roles,andconstruction had veryoldaircraft –around 30or40yearsold.Thiswas “Many of the contract opportunities we’ve been looking at “Many ofthecontractopportunitieswe’vebeenlookingat for humanrecovery, anNVGcockpit,etc.Thisconversion affecting theirreliability andtheirabilitytosatisfycustomer needs. We therefore aircraft decidedtolookforamodern H225 thatare haveagoodrangeandpayload, modern, payload, withgreater range, becauseintheutilitymarket, the engineering and technical support combined with the the engineeringandtechnicalsupportcombinedwith familiar with the military variant of the H225, but adapting familiar withthemilitaryvariantofH225,butadapting make sure weare inatleastfi veorsixdifferent markets partnership withAirbushaspaidoff, withthemproviding ACHI’s strategyforthefuture istodiversify. We wantto payload andrangeare the key tocustomersatisfaction. in theoilandgassector, wewere abletoacquire afairly and are sustainable.Thatiswhere theH225isunique. in additiontotheUSNavymaritimesupportroles. We Airbus hadalotofexperiencehere becausetheywere We seeitcoveringaround 75%oftheexpansioninto signifi cantnumberandconvertthemfrom anoffshore There aren’t toomany largeheavy-liftaircraft likethe had alistofaround 12modifi cations! Fortunately, our are expandingintopersonnelrecovery andcasualty allowed ourhelicopterstofulfi lawholenewrangeof confi gurationtoonemore suitedtoutility work,with them was a bit of an engineering challenge as we them wasabitofanengineeringchallengeaswe The H225wasratheruniqueinthissense. Chief OperationsOfﬁ cer ofACHI customers oftheH225. these newmarkets.” JohnBean, MRO facilities.

© Dianne Bond other helicopternow!” reliable. Iknowsomepilots whodon’t wanttofl yany help alotandtheautopilotinSARmodeisincredibly outstanding stability;theautomaticsystemsalso a rare occurrence inourregion. TheH225offers waves getashigh10metres... andthat’s notsuch performance inpoorweatherconditions,whenthe operators alikewillallundoubtedlysayit’s theH225’s the mostaboutH225,pilots,rescuers andwinch If youaskaround atthebase whattheyappreciate on rocks —andallinasingletrip! from onboard theBlueStarafteritranaground months agoweusedtheH225toevacuate23people rescue largenumbersofpeople... althoughjustafew This secondhelicoptercanalsobeusedtohelp response capabilitiesunder anyweatherconditions. based nearbytocomplementourlong-distance second helicopterwiththesamecharacteristics 200 NM. That is whyitwasessentialtohavea The H225istheonlyhelicopterwitharangeof on 69 missions withatotalof51peoplerescued. is less than45 minutes. In2019theywere used evacuations andsearches astheresponse time Santiago deCompostelaismainlyusedforscheduled of lessthan15minutes,whiletheH225basedin based inCoruñaoffers aprompt response time in equipment,maintenanceandpersonnel.TheH225 Santiago deCompostelagreatly facilitatessynergies “Clearly, usingthesameaircraft inCoruñaand Pilot, HeadofFlightOperationsSARatBabcock Bravo, JesusHernández

© Anthony Pecchi 17 ROTOR - No. 119 - APRIL 2020 18 ROTOR - No. 119 - APRIL 2020 UP ABOVE carrying outatrainingmission. carrying An NH90fromtheFAMET 19 ROTOR - No. 119 - APRIL 2020 © Anthony Pecchi MISSION

to pick up two specialists before taking off once again on its way to the accident zone at an altitude of more than 7,900 feet. There are now six crew members – and their equipment – on board. The two GREIM* specialists know the area like the back of their hand. With the information they receive, they are able to provide the pilots with rough coordinates. They also have more detailed SPAIN information on the injured person: “He’s semi- conscious, with acute back pain and he’s unable to move his legs.” HELP FROM THE HEAVENS In only 10 minutes they arrive at the site of the accident. They are fl ying above 8,200 feet in stronger winds now, which are steadily driving cloud cover Article and photos: Francisco Francés 1 lower. The skiers are located on a tongue of ice some 70 metres wide, wedged in a corridor between two vertical walls of rock. 2 SAFETY FIRST For a little over a year now, Spain’s Guardia Civil has been using an The pilots analyse the area and wind conditions H135 helicopter for rescue operations in the Pyrenees. In the winter before deciding how to make their approach. Due 1: The H135 to the circumstances, they decide to aim for a point team examines the patient. Meanwhile, the clouds allows the months, the ski resorts are bustling with snow seekers and tourists below the victim’s location to drop off the rescue continue to drop rapidly. Guardia Civil to increase their team. Wind conditions and the increasingly low cloud The initial diagnosis is a possible spinal fracture. and aerial rescue activity is at its peak. SAR capabilities. coverage make a winch rescue operation too risky. “This type of injury makes it very complicated The rescuers and the medic jump to the ground and to evacuate in the current conditions,” explains the 2: The H135 the commander hovers overhead while the medical medic later on. They will have to move fast as clouds carries one doctor and The sun dawns over high clouds above Aragón of information on the status of the injured person. are engulfi ng the entire area. “One of the two specialists advances of in the central Pyrenees on a Sunday morning. It’s We have to be prepared to deal with a range of They are now fl ying in whiteout conditions, a on board. the H135 March, and the snow entices skiers to enjoy the different scenarios,” she explains. On this occasion, common occurrence which the crew is well prepared slopes of the Pyrenees. At 2:30 pm, Teniente Coronel a skier has fallen from a height of several metres 3 for. The helicopter is lighter now that only the two 3: The Guardia compared to Civil now has (Major) Rodríguez, in charge of the Guardia Civil UA* and is immobile. For the moment, there is no further pilots are on board. They land on the snow and once the EC135 P2+ more security in Huesca, hears his phone ring. With one glance at information. the patient has been stabilised, he is lifted into the margins when is its improved the phone number on the screen he knows they have cabin. After everyone is aboard, the pilot pulls up ﬂ ying very high performance to mobilise. The crew, the maintenance specialist IMPROVED FEATURES and the helicopter rests lightly on its skids. The H135 in the mountains. in high and and the EMS medic immediately spring into action “One of the advances of the H135 compared to the responds perfectly with all the personnel on board, 20 21 hot conditions.” in response to the call placed to 061 (the Spanish EC135 P2+ is its improved performance in high and gaining speed and altitude as it emerges from the Brigada Valcarcel, local emergency phone number). hot conditions. In the summer we have to fl y when corridor of ice and snow on its way back to the base. H135 pilot with “Weekends are usually very busy due to the massive temperatures exceed 20º Celsius and at altitudes The patient was evacuated to the provincial hospital the Guardia Civil. infl ux of skiers and hikers in our area of operations,” greater than 10,000 feet. During our missions, which in Huesca, where he received initial treatment. After explains the commander as he prepares for the are always at high altitudes with conditions similar several days in hospital he was transferred to a fl ight. In less than seven minutes, the ‘Cuco’, to today’s rescue, we push the helicopter to its limits in hospital in Madrid, where he continued his recovery. the helicopter’s callsign, is airborne. order to save lives,” explains Brigada (Warrant Offi cer *UA: Aerial unit. On board, the medic checks that all her equipment 2nd Class) Valcárcel, a pilot with the Huesca UA. *GREIM: Grupos de Rescate Especial de Intervención en Montaña is in order. “An initial handicap we face is the lack After a brief 20-minute fl ight, the H135 touches down (Mountain Rescue and Intervention Group). ROTOR - N o. 119 APRIL 2020 ROTOR - N o. 119 APRIL 2020 MISSION

H160 COUNTDOWN FOR THE FIRST DELIVERY Now that its certifi cation Article: Belén Morant – Photos: Eric Raz is approaching, the H160’s entry into service is just around the corner. Companies like Shell have already shown interest in being one of the fi rst users of this helicopter designed to make life easier for operators, pilots and passengers. Equipment accessibility has been facilitated by the helicopter’s optimised architecture, the maintenance plan Général Bertrand Valette d’Osia, Commandant ALAT.

was thoroughly verifi ed “The fi rst impression after this fl ight responsiveness of the on-board during the Operator is how easy it was. We were given a systems offers the pilot effective demonstration of the new capabilities assistance in dealing with the Zero campaigns, and offered by this aircraft, which will trickiest situations, especially when it is delivered with amaze our crews who are still fl ying managing faults. intuitive 3D maintenance on older generation helicopters The ergonomics of this aircraft will (Gazelle and Puma). We carried help our crews during combat, documentation. The out a mission in a relatively unusual and they will familiarise themselves countdown to the delivery confi guration, during which we were quickly. able to measure In terms of range, the H160 of the fi rst H160 has the added value of the autopilot Guépard will fall between the Tiger 22 23 begun. It is the opportunity and the overall qualities of the (our attack aircraft) and the NH90 aircraft, which is equipped with a Caïman (our transport aircraft). It will for several operators rotor that responds perfectly in all complement the Tiger and Caïman, participating in demo confi gurations. Flight quality and admittedly with a less extensive fl ights to talk about their comfort are extremely impressive, range of missions, but it will perform in particular the reduction in noise well in terms of safety and can be impressions. and vibrations. The extreme fl own over all terrains.” ROTOR - N o. 119 APRIL 2020 ROTOR - N o. 119 APRIL 2020 MISSION

H160 : COUNTDOWN FOR THE FIRST DELIVERY Stefan Verstraeten, Group CAMO Manager at Noordzee Helikopters Vlaanderen (NHV), Postholder Part M for the UK and BE AOC.

“My job, managing the continuing airworthiness Michal Schutty, together with my team, is all about the process of CTO NHV, Belgium / Oil and gas operations keeping the aircraft in a condition where it remains airworthy throughout its life. “I had an excellent experience on board the H160. With the H160, I noticed a big step forward on the What surprised me the most, was the low noise level maintenance aspects. What I found impressive which was very comfortable. I think that passengers is that Airbus Helicopters is now aligning the travelling a lot by helicopter would love this just as maintenance programme and maintenance much, as it is determining for the comfort in the philosophies with best practices in many aspects, cabin. Also, the vibration level is signifi cantly lower and thus seriously improving operators’ costs and than I experienced in other types of helicopters. burden. It’s great to see fi xed and rotary wing are As for the pilots, the automation of the helicopter teaming up to combine decades of best practices is absolutely brought to the next level, with the The H160 could defi nitely be used in the North Sea that will only benefi t the operators. Another automatic takeoffs from the helipads and the for several missions, but might especially make the example is the Zero Operator philosophy, avoiding automatic engine failure recovery and loss of control difference in oil and gas operations because it is all that the fi rst operator needs to go through the fl ight stabilizations features. I am confi dent they will about safety and comfort for the passengers. There initial hiccups that are traditionally related with troubleshooting system, which is more aligned with love fl ying this machine equipped with such state-of- were moments I felt no vibrations at all—I felt like I bringing an aircraft into service. For a lot of the what we know from Airbus’ fi xed wing division, is the-art autopilot and avionics system. was fl ying in a jetliner.” maintenance in the lower checks, you don´t need also a big step forward. I also noticed the upgrade any tools or equipment, you just need inspections in visualisation for the engineers of the platform and that means operators can avoid cost. It’s a big they are going to use to do all the maintenance. improvement on other helicopters and previous They really get to see what is going on, and where maintenance programmes. The new and interactive they have to look.” Matthew Munson, Heligroup, UK / Charter and VIP

“This helicopter is amazing! In the UK we operate the new H135, which we use for private and VIP charter. After fl ying the H160, I think it is very, very smooth, very comfortable. It has a lot of power and it’s very manoeuvrable from the pilots’ perspective, as well. Therefore, our customers would be very happy in the back of the H160. Tilj Vuyk, I´ve found it very easy to fl y because the Helionix private owner, UK. avionics installed there are exactly the same as what we have in our H135, so all systems are “I think it is a really nice machine, easy to fl y, exactly the same. The cyclic and the collective are very comfortable, with great visibility. Defi nitely, 24 25 the same as well, so it felt very natural to be fl ying it I think is a great helicopter. I love it! after fl ying in our H135—very smooth. I am a pilot myself and I could land it here and The sound level is much lower than I expected, bring it back to the airport. When I took the even in a prototype machine; we were able to commands, I saw it was very easy to handle. take off our headsets and not experience much My fi rst lift off was as if I did it every day. It noise. The vibration level we tried at different can be used for private aviation because it speeds, from 100 kts to 170 kts, and there was is quite big, anyone can fl y it, and the sound no difference at all—very impressive. Clearly, it has and vibration levels are fantastic. I am very been a well thought-out machine.” impressed… I might buy one! (Laughs)” ROTOR - N o. 119 APRIL 2020 ROTOR - N o. 119 APRIL 2020 26 ROTOR - No. 119 - APRIL 2020 MISSION harbour pilotservices wind farmsand including SAR,offshore maritime services also performingHEMS, producing industry, but focused ontheenergy Missions: mainly Employees: 550 Ostend (Belgium) Headquarters: and H145 family from the Dauphin and helicopters among whichthe H175 Fleet: NHV to oil and gas customers, NHV and CHC Helicopter, the H175 has proven its worth Selecting the right equipment is vital to success in the North Sea and according 60+ helicopters, 60+ helicopters, carrying passengers and crew safely where they need to go. POSITIVE VIBES NORTH SEA Article: Samantha Pitt 1

© Marcio Jumpei Nakatsui-Brasil an engineer.” older aircraft. It’s averyniceaircraft toworkonas wing. Accessibilityisalsobetter thanforalotof engineer atNHV. “Itfl ies really well,justlikea fi xed “It’s perfect forpilots,”claimsEricVerhoogt, from NHV’s baseinAberdeen usingtheH175. four crew changefl ightsperweekandwilldepart another long-termcontractwithPetrofac tocover fl ighthours.In2019,thecompanywasawarded Today, NHVistheH175fl eetleaderwith36,000 that thepassengersare abletoseeout.” a verystable,fastandquietmachine…andit’s great “We candothejobofsuperheavyfl eetnow. It’s “It’s great foroffshore,” sayspilotTom NHV. Willis, with afullpayload. to cover90%ofitsNorthSeaoffshore installations bases. ChoosingtheH175enablescompany their Aberdeen (Scotland)andEsbjerg (Denmark) December 2014.Theynowoperate13H175sfrom H175, withthefi rst twoaircraft enteringservicein The NHVGroup wastheinaugural customerofthe and ontime.” staff willgetwhere theyare goingsafely, effi ciently peace ofmindandknowthattheirpassengers on allthesefronts, allowingcustomers tohave the norm.We canseethat theH175isproducing comfortable, quietandoffer adifferent solutionto in Aberdeen. “Theywantit todeliverontime,be fl y,” explainsJamieJohn,BaseManagerforNHV “Customers wantanaircraft that’s alwaysready to NHV, THEFLEETLEADER anything youneedataglance.” Maxine Ackerley, CHC Helicopter. “You can fi nd Helionix andAirbusautopilot,”explainsCaptain “The difference isthesuperiorinterfacewith overall safetythrough reduced pilotworkload. an intuitivehuman-machineinterface,improving by crews. Itoffers unrivalledpilotassistancein is oneofthesafetyfeatures mostappreciated The HelionixadvancedavionicssuiteoftheH175 their in-servicelives. helicopter parts,from manufacture totheendof a document that trackstheentire historyofcritical helicopter tobedelivered with digitallogcards, operations. TheirlastH175wasthefi rstAirbus in Aberdeen, Scotlandon offshore oilandgas North Sea:oneinNorwich,Englandandthree CHC HelicopteroperatesfourH175sinthe automation, becauseofitscapabilities.” CHC Helicopter. “Theylovetofl yitbecauseofits Manager/Deputy OperationsManager, LeeJames, from eartoear,” saysRegionalMaintenance out oftheH175becausethey’re justgrinning “It’s anabsolutepleasure toseethecrews coming MUCH APPRECIATED SAFETYFEATURES a lot oflightfrom thewindowsandagreat view.” into technology, theiPadgeneration.There was Christie. “Itwasexcitingforsomeonelikemewho’s “It’s alotmore intuitive,”addsNHVpilot,Neil

© Thierry Rostang © Nicolas Gouhier 3 2 industry, SARandEMS Missions: Oilandgas 4,500 Employees (worldwide): (Texas, US) Headquarters: Dallas family andH175 including SuperPuma heavy helicopters, Fleet: Mediumand CHC in the NorthSea operates fourH175s 4: CHCHelicopter appreciated bycrews. safety features most suite is one ofthe advanced avionics 3: TheH175’s Helionix and Danish bases. from theirScottish 2: of the H175. the inaugural customer 1: The NHVGroup was NHV operates 13 H175s NHV operates13 H175s 27 ROTOR - No. 119 - APRIL 2020 NO LIMITS

ESSENTIAL TECHNICAL CHOICES FOCUS ON SIMPLICITY At the heart of CityAirbus lie innovative engines and propulsion Simplicity, which is synonymous with safety and efficiency, is in the choices. The aircraft carries eight electric motors of 100 kW DNA of CityAirbus. As the nacelles and propellers are fixed pitch, 1 connected to the same number of propellers, grouped in pairs three-axis attitude control is achieved simply by varying the power 2 in four nacelles 2.8 m in diameter. These nacelles positioned transmitted. The consequence is that the aircraft has no servo at the four corners of the aircraft are fixed, as is the pitch of controls, thus reducing weight, increasing reliability and bringing the propeller blades. Engine redundancy is a key factor in down maintenance costs. safety, as the aircraft could do without one or two of its engines The development work concerns the search for the correct operating with no danger. Four batteries developed by Airbus Defence balance between the vehicle configuration, the electrical system (batteries and Space provide the electrical power. In order to meet the and electric motors) and the power management, to ensure the required CITYAIRBUS constraints of operations in a built-up area, particular attention failure tolerance while staying within strict weight and performance has been paid to the acoustic footprint: the electric motors are constraints. “We have to find the right recipe for accommodating all REINVENTS inaudible and the relatively low rotation speed of the propellers the ingredients of the chosen propulsion method. This is the technical challenge of this type of aircraft,” summarises Marius Bebesel. VERTICAL FLIGHT also contributes to the quietness of the aircraft.

CityAirbus is a technology demonstrator paving the way for a new family of aircraft with 100% electric propulsion.

Article: Alexandre Marchand Photo: Patrick Heinz

“CityAirbus is a full-scale experimental demonstrator, a tool which will enable us to test new technical solutions that could eventually transform helicopter flight,” explains Marius Bebesel, programme manager. With a laden weight of 2.2 tonnes and the ability to eventually carry a highly modular payload of up to 250 kg, the demonstrator could natu- rally find applications in the field of urban mobility. But that’s not all: the possible scope of applications for such an aircraft could go much further, notably rescue or emergency medevac missions, and this might be just the STEP BY STEP TO THE FUTURE tip of the iceberg… CityAirbus made its first tethered flight on 1 May 2019 at the 3 Airbus Helicopters facility in Donauwörth (Germany). Since 28 then, the demonstrator has been carrying out free flights, albeit controlled from the ground. The aim of Marius Bebesel’s team is to achieve a first automatic flight, gradually expand the flight envelope and validate the level of performance in order to pave the way for the next generation. However, the challenges are not purely technical: EASA is already working on the rules to be applied to certify this future generation of aircraft. “Certification work will not only concern the platform, but also a new operational concept in order to achieve broad acceptance by the public authorities,” Marius Bebesel adds. © xxxxxxxxxxx ROTOR - N o. 119 APRIL 2020 MISSION

AVIATOR GROUP AUSTRALIA Headquarters: South Mackay, Australia THE H135 MEETS THE Founded: 1993 Staff: 52, of which 30 pilots and GREAT BARRIER REEF 12 maintenance technicians Fleet: 10 helicopters, of which six H135 Aviator Group uses a fleet of H135 aircraft to transfer specialised marine pilots and 2 AS350 to and from shipping vessels and cruise ships. Areas of operation: six ports, from Article: Heather Couthaud – Photos: Aviator Group Queensland (north) to Melbourne (south) 3 and Port Headland (west)

Helicopter rotors churning the air only metres of operating within the close inshore environment,” four-minute journey to the longer one by launch. overhead. A vast sea below and a landing pad on says Ian Vanderbeek, CEO of Aviator Group. Helicopters can also undertake transfers in higher a ship’s deck, hemmed in by obstacles. It might The flights are often just 3 to 5 NM – up to 20 NM sea states or windier conditions than by traditional 1: Aviator Group operates six H135 be daytime, it might be night. Once you’re lowered to reach spots farther out. The Blossom Bank means. “The H135 has great performance and helicopters for harbour down, an intense job awaits you. boarding ground near the Great Barrier Reef is fantastic cabin egress and ingress, which is very pilot transfers. This is the daily commute for harbour pilots, highly located 120 NM from the company’s headquarters. suitable for the type of work that we undertake,” specialised ship captains who take the controls of The quick turnarounds and high demand (Aviator says Vanderbeek. 2: Flights to ships’ boarding grounds container ships and large vessels and navigate them Group effects more than 14,000 transfers a year) Much of the transfer is at the helicopter pilot’s are often just 3 to 4 NM through ports, where reefs, banks, currents and mean its pilots are kept busy year-round. “We discretion, such as the vessel’s maximum from shore. tides present hazards to visiting ships. Increasingly, operate 24/7, 365 days a year,” says Vanderbeek. movements of pitch, roll and heave during a land-on helicopters have provided a safe and fast way “Shipping never stops.” mission; or wind speed and visibility during hoists. 3: The H135’s performance and cabin to take them to the ships’ boarding grounds. Important, then, to use all the tools at their “It’s critical for harbour pilots to find an efficient way egress are suited to disposal. Aviator Group introduced its first of transferring out to vessels that is both safe and maritime operations. QUICK TURNAROUNDS Helionix-equipped H135 into service last year. reduces the level of fatigue. That’s why we’re finding AND HIGH DEMAND “We’ve been so impressed with the aircraft that that helicopters, and in particular the H135, are 4: Hoist operations require an air crew For more than 25 years, Aviator Group has been we’ve just introduced our second aircraft into becoming the preferred choice of those leading pilot officer to guide operating helicopter marine pilot transfer flights in service. The main advantages that we’ve found organisations,” says Vanderbeek. the harbour pilot’s 1 Australia. Since 2008, the company has used the with the Helionix is it significantly reduces pilot descent. H135. “We’ve found that the aircraft fits that niche workload, and it’s provided us with a much greater improvement in safety, particularly as we operate single pilot operations at night.” 4

“We’ve been so A DAY LIKE ANY OTHER 30 31 impressed with the 2 Harbour pilot transfers take the form of either aircraft that we’ve land-on or hoist missions. The former involves just introduced our landing on the ship, and is crewed by just one second Helionix helicopter pilot. Hoist operations require an air aircraft into service.” crew officer to operate the winch and guide its passenger. Ian Vanderbeek, “One of the principal advantages of the H135 is CEO of Aviator Group. a reduction in fatigue” for harbour pilots, explains Watch the video here Vanderbeek, comparing the helicopter’s three or ROTOR - N o. 119 APRIL 2020 ROTOR - N o. 119 APRIL 2020 SERVICES Customers testimonials WELCOME 3 NEW SERVICES AND MORE EXTENSIVE BROWSING CAPABILITY « The new refresh on the AirbusWorld Drawing on the experience acquired interactive map of the Airbus TO AIRBUSWORLD with Keycopter and feedback from Helicopters global network to help has been a fantastic experience for users, AirbusWorld offers simplifi ed and customers locate the nearest points of the customer. Very easy to use, very intuitive browsing, for example with the contact within their business region. intuitive system and I found the online possibility of switching rapidly from one A catalogue of services (showroom) marketplace has a very Amazon- At the most recent Heli-Expo show, Airbus Helicopters unveiled application to another within the site by is also available online to enable like feel which will help improve the AirbusWorld, its new collaborative customer platform, accessible means of shortcuts and menus on all customers to choose the most supply chain department moving worldwide. This major change to the old Keycopter portal benefi ts pages. appropriate solution for improving their forward » The AirbusWorld platform improves activity. Rob Parsons, from numerous exchanges with users to offer a more fl exible operation the sharing of ideas and collaboration The eOrdering tool through which parts Yellowhead Helicopters between Airbus Helicopters and can be ordered online is changing and new online services, in an entirely revamped format. its customers by creating online and now has new functions, notably communities to deal with topics such a Marketplace enabling customers/ « On a day-to-day basis it helps when Article: Alexandre Marchand as products, events and projects. operators to obtain parts directly from you’re able to go to one website The portal gives access to an third-party suppliers. instead of multiple screens and platforms. Being able to do many different things inside one platform makes a big difference. All the main features are much easier to access. It’s pretty much 1-2-3… and you’re done ! » DIGITALISATION WORKING FOR Veronica Lozano, THE CUSTOMER Rotorcraft Support Inc. 1 “Our aim is to offer our customers a complete digital chain accessible from a single platform hosting all our activities,” summarises Stéphanie Bonnefoy, Head of Connected Services at Airbus Helicopters. The development of a “Marketplace” 4 also enables Airbus Helicopters to involve certain partners who contribute to operator activities. Other functions allow direct and daily exchanges A POSITIVE IMPACT operations. “AirbusWorld is an essential between Airbus Helicopters and its customers. FOR OPERATORS tool in helping customers take full AirbusWorld is therefore more than just a simple AirbusWorld is also a collaborative advantage of the transition to all-digital,” customer portal and offers a truly collaborative platform enabling Airbus Helicopters stresses Stéphanie Bonnefoy. At the platform bringing the various players in the to collect and use technical data, with Heli-Expo show in Anaheim, Hungarian helicopter world together. the aim of making better use of the Air Ambulance, which operates nine potential of its customers’ aircraft. H135s, signed a three-year contract for Customers can also take advantage complete digitalisation of its support with of more in-depth analyses, accessible Airbus Helicopters. Other operators will from the portal, to further improve their rapidly be following suit.

32 A MARKETPLACE FOR CUSTOMERS AND PARTNERS 33 The Marketplace, the cornerstone of equipment and consumables, and have them 2 AirbusWorld, is revolutionising the eOrdering delivered. service. It now offers customers the opportunity Customers will be able to take advantage of NEW ROAMING SOLUTIONS for one-stop purchasing of products sold the geographical proximity of certain suppliers Access to the services on the AirbusWorld search engine has been improved and is by Airbus Helicopters and other suppliers. It in order to reduce their transport costs and 5 platform is gradually being extended to all now, for example, accessible both on- and enables operators to compare what is being guarantee quick delivery. The Marketplace roaming devices (telephone, laptops, tablets, offl ine. The technical request application is offered by suppliers, to buy a wide range of catalogue and supplier referencing is rapidly etc.). This improved mobility primarily concerns now also available and can be used offl ine, aeronautical and non-aeronautical equipment, expanding, offering a broad range of packaging technical documentation, accessible via with automatic synchronisation when next spare parts, tools and ground support and quantities. the O.R.I.O.N. application, for which the connected to the network. ROTOR - N o. 119 APRIL 2020 ROTOR - N o. 119 APRIL 2020 RELY ON.

F LY WE MAKE IT

It’s no surprise the H145 is the helicopter of choice for rescue missions. Whatever mother nature throws at you, it can bring help to where it’s needed. Compact and versatile, it provides outstanding flight performance under the most extreme conditions.

Reliability. We make it fly.

airbus.com