Airbus Helicopters has received Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) certification for the H160 helicopter, marking an important milestone in the development of the aircraft and positioning it for entry into the US market.
FAA Certified
Finally, one could almost say. The H160 received its FAA type certificate, the process had been delayed after being directly impacted by the pandemic, among other things, which explains the three years needed to arrive at the long-awaited issuance of the certificate. But all of that is history today, as Airbus Helicopters has received Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) certification for the H160 helicopter, marking a milestone in the aircraft’s development and positioning it for its entry into the US market. “We are pleased to receive FAA certification for the H160, which demonstrates many years of hard work and commitment by our teams to deliver this multi-role helicopter to customers across North America who have already trusted the H160. “, said Bruno Even, CEO of Airbus Helicopters. “This device features the highest level of innovation and we are confident that its advanced capabilities, coupled with our strong customer support network, will cement its position as the preferred choice for customers in the United States,” said- he added.
Blue Edge, Helionix and over 100 H160s on order
The H160’s features include noise-reducing Blue Edge rotor blades, a tilted Fenestron tail rotor for greater payload, and Airbus Helicopters’ Helionix avionics suite to reduce pilot workload. The H160 previously received certification from the European Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) in July 2020. Airbus Helicopters has received orders for more than 100 H160s from customers around the world, including more than a dozen American customers. The H160 has entered service in Japan, Brazil, Saudi Arabia and Europe, and the fleet has accumulated over 1,700 flight hours.
Versatility at heart
The H160 is a multi-role helicopter suitable for various missions in different market segments, including offshore transport for the energy industry, private and business aviation, emergency medical services, commercial passenger transport and public services such as search and rescue and law enforcement. With its exceptional reach, speed and efficiency, the H160 offers a higher level of performance and flexibility to operators.
A first level D FFS simulator
Plans have been underway for several years to ensure a smooth entry into service of the H160, including the previously announced addition of the first H160 Level D Full Flight Simulator (FFS) in North America. The FFS is expected to be ready for use as early as the second half of 2025 and will be located at the Helisim Simulation Center inside the Airbus Helicopters, Inc. facility in Grand Prairie, Texas.
