Frequently Asked Questions?
What is Airbus Helicopters known for and what is its line?
It is the largest manufacturer of civil helicopters, accounting for approximately half of global deliveries. Its lineup covers all requirements: single-engine H125 and H130 for 4-6 passengers, light twin-engine H135 and H145, mid-size H155 and H175, and the latest H160. For private customers, there is a VIP version of the ACH (Airbus Corporate Helicopters) with custom cabins.
Which Airbus helicopter should I choose: H125, H145 or H160?
The H125 is a workhorse for transfers up to 600 km: five passengers, high-altitude decks, and rentals from ~$2,000/hour. The H145 is a twin-engine, eight-seat aircraft, approved for city and water flights, and can handle medical and night missions. The H160 is the flagship of the VIP segment: eight passengers in a cabin with panoramic windows, a range of ~850 km, and significantly reduced noise levels thanks to Blue Edge blades.
How do Airbus helicopters hold their value on the used market?
The H125 is one of the most marketable helicopters in the world: a ten-year-old helicopter retains a price of 70–80% compared to new (a new one costs ~$4 million), and its market exposure rarely exceeds six months. This is due to its large fleet, affordable spare parts, and versatility: the same helicopter is used for VIP transport, air ambulances, and tourism. The twin-engine H135/H145 have slightly weaker, but still stable, prices.
How reliable are Airbus helicopters and how is the maintenance?
The Safran Arriel engines powering the H125/H130/H135 have accumulated over 50 million flight hours, with a TBO of up to 4,000 hours. The Airbus Helicopters service network covers over 150 countries; within the CIS and Central Asia, authorized centers operate in Kazakhstan, the UAE, and Turkey, ensuring scheduled maintenance does not require the helicopter to be flown to Europe.
What country is the Airbus Helicopters from, how old is the brand, and how many helicopters were produced?
Airbus Helicopters (formerly Eurocopter, a 1992 merger of France's Aérospatiale and Germany's MBB) is headquartered in Marignane, France. It is the largest manufacturer of civilian helicopters, with over 12,000 in service worldwide and approximately half of the global civilian market.
Where can I get Airbus helicopters serviced in the CIS and surrounding areas?
The Airbus Helicopters network covers over 150 countries. Operators in Central Asia and the CIS have authorized centers in the UAE, Turkey, and Kazakhstan, so scheduled maintenance and repairs do not require helicopters to be flown to Western Europe. Safran/P&W engines are serviced under global programs.
What guarantees does Airbus provide for a new helicopter?
The factory warranty on the airframe and components typically lasts 2–5 years, depending on the model and configuration. Engines are covered by Safran or Pratt & Whitney programs (hourly rates). HCare extended support packages with a fixed service fee are available.
What is the waiting period for the new Airbus helicopter?
Lightweight models (H125, H130) are delivered in 12-18 months, while twin-engine and VIP versions (H145, H160) take around 18-24 months due to backlogs and custom interiors. The newest H160 is booked years in advance. Faster delivery is available through a ready-made slot or the used market.
How much do Airbus helicopters cost: price guide?
H125 — about $4.5 million new (from $2.5 million with flying hours), H130 — ~$3.5 million, twin-engine H145 — ~$6–10 million, flagship H160 in VIP — $17–20 million, heavy H175 — about $15 million. Residual value H125 is one of the best in the industry.
What Airbus models are available and how to choose the right one?
The line covers all requirements: single-engine H125/H130 (5-7 seats, transfers up to 650 km), light twin-engine H135/H145 (city, water, air ambulance), mid-size H155/H160/H175 (VIP, 8-18 seats, up to 1,260 km). Regular flights over the metropolis require a twin-engine, while a single-engine is sufficient for mountainous and private flights.
