Airbus Helicopters has secured an ACH160 order from an undisclosed new customer in the Philippines, launching this new model in the Southeast Asia and Pacific region. Airbus explains it will be used for private and business flights within the Philippines archipelago.
This aircraft will feature what Airbus defines as its ACH160 Exclusive version with two wide hinged doors and electrical footsteps combined with a bespoke cabin. The configuration seats up to eight passengers. The helicopter also includes Blue Edge blades and a new canted Fenestron rotor.
As part of the contract, the ACH160 will be backed by HCare First, which is Airbus’ first such premium support agreement in the region. The medium twin-engine H160’s entry into service is planned for 2020.
“Launching the ACH160 in Southeast Asia with a new Philippine customer underlines the global attractiveness of our corporate helicopters offering to meet the evolving travelling needs of our customers,” said Frederic Lemos, Head of Airbus Corporate Helicopters (ACH). “We are equally excited to see our ACH products gaining good success in the growing Philippine private travel market.”
Airbus has been present in the Philippines for approximately 40 years, primarily focused on the corporate and parapublic helicopter market segments. Through its Manila-based customer centre, Airbus Helicopters Philippines provides maintenance, repair and overhaul, support and service solutions to more than 50 customers.
