Frequently Asked Questions?

Airbus H130: What is this plane and what should you consider when buying it?

The H130 is a single-engine tourist and VIP helicopter (since 2001): a spacious seven-seat cabin with panoramic windows, an Arriel 2D engine, and a range of approximately 600 km. An enclosed fenestron instead of a tail rotor makes it one of the quietest in its class—the H130 is the choice of tour operators at the Grand Canyon and Niagara. There is no flight attendant or hot meals. Baggage access is not available in flight; it is loaded on the ground. Typical routes include Moscow–Nizhny Novgorod, Almaty–Shymkent, and Tashkent–Bishkek. Send us a request—we will prepare a proposal, calculate the contents, and analyze options tailored to your needs.

How much does Airbus H130 cost: purchase and maintenance?

Guidelines for the Airbus H130: average used price is $2.2 million; new price is $3.5 million. Maintenance with 300-400 flight hours per year is approximately $558,000/year, flight hours are $1,395/hour. The final price depends on the year, flight hours, engine life, and configuration. Send us a request – we will prepare a proposal, calculate maintenance, and analyze options tailored to your needs.

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.

How to choose the right aircraft for your needs?

Start with two figures: the typical route length and the number of passengers. Up to 1,000 km and 4 passengers – a turboprop or light jet; 2,000–4,000 km – a medium jet; nonstop intercontinental flights – a long-haul jet. Add adjustments for short runs, baggage volume, and berths. We'll select a model that matches your profile and calculate the economics of ownership. Send us a request – we'll prepare a proposal, calculate the content, and analyze options tailored to your needs.

A new plane or a used one – which is more profitable to buy?

A new aircraft comes with a factory warranty and a 1-3 year waiting list, but the price is maximum. A used aircraft offers immediate delivery and a lower price for the 30-60%, but it's important to check the engine life and history. For most buyers, a new aircraft, 3-7 years old, is optimal: the main discount has already been applied, and the aircraft still has a long service life. We consider both options. Send us a request – we'll prepare a proposal, calculate the cost, and analyze the options for your needs.