Airbus and Airtelis ink deal for H145 helicopters, aiming to broaden offshore wind farm operations
The Airbus H145 helicopter, renowned for its low acoustic footprint, has been making waves in the offshore wind industry. This helicopter, currently the quietest in its class, has proven to be a reliable choice for offshore wind operators.
Laurent Giolitti, Executive President of Airtelis, has shared his positive experience with the H145 during the construction of the Yeu Noirmoutier offshore energy platform off the coast of Nantes. Airtelis, a company specialising in offshore operations, has recently signed a framework agreement with Airbus Helicopters for the potential purchase of up to five H145 helicopters, including a firm order for one.
The H145 is powered by twin Safran Arriel 2E engines, delivering superior power and fuel efficiency. Its enclosed Fenestron tail rotor enhances safety and reduces noise, making it an ideal choice for offshore operations. The helicopter is also equipped with a modern Helionix avionics suite, which includes a high-performance 4-axis autopilot and digital cockpit displays. This suite improves situational awareness and reduces pilot workload, contributing to safer and more efficient flights.
The latest version of the Airbus H145 features a five-bladed rotor, increasing its useful load by 150 kg. This design, along with the new bearingless main rotor, eases maintenance operations, improves serviceability, and enhances flight comfort. The H145's digital avionics suite also includes a full authority digital engine control (FADEC), further enhancing its performance and efficiency.
Baudoin Marraud des Grottes, Head of Sales Western Europe at Airbus, emphasised that the Airbus H145 has been the helicopter of choice for offshore wind operators due to its capacity for transporting passengers and cargo, and outstanding hover performance for hoisting operations. Airtelis is planning to expand their offshore operations with the H145 helicopters, a decision that Airbus is proud and thankful to have the trust of Airtelis for their helicopters.
Airtelis looks forward to expanding their offshore operations with the H145 and supporting the renewable energy market. Oya Vendeé Helicopteères, a subsidiary of Airtelis, will operate the helicopters, providing support for the offshore wind industry.
With over 1,700 H145 family helicopters in service worldwide, totalling close to 8 million flight hours, the H145's reputation as a reliable and efficient helicopter is well-established. Its CO2 emissions are the lowest among its competitors, making it an eco-friendly choice for offshore wind operations.
In conclusion, the Airbus H145 offers key features highly beneficial for offshore wind operations. Its combination of high payload capacity, advanced avionics, quieter and safer Fenestron tail rotor, and efficient engines means enhanced safety for ground crews and reliable mission execution in challenging maritime environments. The H145 is undoubtedly a valuable asset for the offshore wind industry, as demonstrated by its successful use in the construction of the Yeu Noirmoutier offshore energy platform.
- Airtelis, a company specializing in offshore operations, has signed a framework agreement with Airbus Helicopters for the potential purchase of up to five H145 helicopters, which they plan to use to expand their offshore operations and support the renewable energy market.
- The Airbus H145's reputation as a reliable and efficient helicopter, with lower CO2 emissions compared to its competitors, makes it an eco-friendly choice for the finance sector looking to invest in the offshore wind industry, as demonstrated by Airtelis's decision to purchase it for their operations.
