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PHI deal for 28 Airbus helicopters

Airbus Helicopters and PHI Group have signed a framework agreement that includes commitments for 20 super-medium H175 helicopters and 8 H160s to serve the energy market worldwide, including in the United States. Airbus explains the 28 state-of-the-art helicopters will better position PHI to respond to the energy market’s expected growing offshore transportation needs. These commitments are composed of firm orders, as well as purchase options that PHI may exercise during the course of the framework agreement.

“This agreement is a component of our broader strategy to bring new technology into an industry that has experienced a strong rebound after years of underinvestment,” said Scott McCarty, CEO of PHI Group. “We look forward to our continued partnership with Airbus as we prepare to enter these aircraft into service with our customers around the world.”

PHI has been supporting the energy industry for 74 years and today operates more than 200 helicopters across the globe serving a number of markets, including energy and air medical. PHI’s Airbus fleet consists of H125, H135, H145, H160 and H175 family helicopters, with the H175 being its newest model addition.

“We are proud of our ongoing partnership with PHI, a company recognized in the industry for its leadership in innovation and safety,” said Bruno Even, CEO of Airbus Helicopters. “We thank them for renewing their confidence in the H160 and for adding the H175, for their long-range missions, to their growing fleet.”

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In service since 2015, Airbus’ H175 belongs to the super-medium class of helicopters. There are now 54 H175s currently in service that have accumulated around 195,000 flight hours, of which 170,000 are flying for the energy sector.

Designed as a multi-role helicopter capable of performing a wide range of missions, the H160 integrates Airbus’ latest technological innovations. With its light maintenance plan, the H160 optimises operating costs and offers a new standard in availability. The helicopter is powered by two of the latest Arrano engines from SafranHelicopter Engines that offer a 15% reduction in fuel burn. Both the H175 and H160 are already certified to fly with as much as 50% sustainable aviation fuel.