Airbus Helicopters’ presence at the ongoing ILA Berlin Air Show (20-25 Ma 2014) reflects over four decades of helicopter manufacturing in Germany. Their exhibition features a range of brand-new models such as the EC145 T2 and EC135 T3 aircraft, as well as the NH90 NFH naval helicopter and the legendary BO105.
Besides offering visitors an insight into its comprehensive service portfolio, Airbus Helicopters will also showcase the extent of its innovative solutions by demonstrating products including Helionix®, its latest generation avionics suite.
“Airbus Helicopters has well-established roots in Germany and has been working closely with civil and governmental customers for decades. The German Armed Forces, state and federal police forces, rescue organizations and private companies all rely on our helicopters. We make every effort to preserve this trust and to offer our customers products and services of the highest quality and safety standards at competitive rates,” said Wolfgang Schoder, CEO of Airbus Helicopters Germany.
Taking center stage among the Airbus Helicopters aircraft on display in Berlin are the NH90 NFH (photo), the most modern and versatile naval helicopter on the market, which will take to the skies during several flight demonstrations at the ILA. The NH90 NFH was designed to meet the requirements of several NATO countries and is equipped with the latest systems for military operations and search and rescue missions. In service in 5 European countries (Italy, France, Belgium, Norway and the Netherlands), the NH90 NFH Sea Lion is also planned as a replacement for the 40-year-old Sea King fleet of the German Armed Forces.
The EC145 T2 is also on show as part of the flight demonstration. Airbus Helicopters’ latest model, entirely developed and produced in Germany, received EASA certification in mid-April; the first orders are due to be delivered to customers in the summer. Airbus Helicopters has already taken over 100 orders for civil and military versions of the new helicopter model.
Features that distinguish the EC145 T2 from the previous EC145 model include its new engines, shrouded Fenestron® tail rotor, performance-enhanced transmission and expanded cockpit with digital Helionix avionics suite. Helionix is a new generation of helicopter on-board electronics with four-axis autopilot that support pilots in flight and provide significantly improved situational awareness.
The EC135 T3/P3 is the latest upgraded version of the EC135, and is due to be delivered to the first customers this year. The new model’s improved features include increased flight performance in hot and high environments and in single-engine situations (or OEI, One Engine Inoperative). In addition to its new, enhanced cockpit design, the EC135 T3/P3 also has a higher maximum take-off weight and improved rates of climb at sea level.
Airbus Helicopters’ presence at the air show also pays tribute to the BO105, a legend of helicopter construction in Germany that is celebrating a fleet milestone at this year’s ILA.
