Airbus Helicopters’ H145 Completes Flight Trials

[Zarvan]

Airbus Helicopters’ H145 demonstrates its ability to perform offshore missions

Airbus Helicopters’ twin-engine multipurpose helicopter H145 has proved its operational capabilities for challenging offshore missions in a flight trial last month.

During a two-day flight trial in late January, the established offshore operators Wiking Helikopter Service GmbH and HTM Offshore were able to test the H145 in all the relevant fields of offshore operations. Both aviation companies collaborate closely to offer their customers a wide range of offshore services involving light and heavy helicopters. This concept is very appreciated in the offshore-wind-branch.

“One of our main activities is the transfer of harbour pilots via helicopter in any kind of weather conditions 24/7,” explains Lars Hilgert, Chief flight coordinator at WIKING. “Harbour pilots navigate ships safely in and out of German harbours. In most cases these pilots are brought onto the moving ships using the winch. This process requires the utmost attention of the helicopter’s pilot and crew,” he added.

“We are very positively surprised with the intuitive Helionix cockpit of the H145 and its 4-axis autopilot with auto-hover function. These systems contribute to the helicopter’s high levels of safety in every scenario. At the same time the workload of the crew is reduced, allowing them to safely accomplish their mission even in the harshest of weathers,” Hilgert adds.

The rotorcraft is also well-suited for Helicopter Emergency Medical Services (HEMS). “Our rescue helicopters are constantly on stand-by for offshore HEMS. Every unit is staffed with a doctor and an assistant and ready to embark on a mission in a minimum amount of time.

Airbus Helicopters’ H145 Completes Flight Trials