Airbus unveils the H140 light twin-engine helicopter as a new addition to its lineup
The aviation industry took a significant leap forward with Airbus Helicopters' introduction of the H140 at VERTICON in Dallas, Texas, on 11 March 2025. This light twin-engine helicopter promises to revolutionise its class with its next-generation design and advanced features.
At the heart of the H140 is a five-blade main rotor, a design that offers improved aerodynamic efficiency for quieter operation and smoother flight. Powering this innovative rotor is a pair of Safran Arrius 2E engines, each delivering 700 shp, ensuring strong performance and reliability for a variety of missions.
The H140's avionics system, Helionix, integrates advanced sensors and pilot assistance features, enhancing flight safety, reducing pilot workload, and supporting better mission coordination. This system, which also equips the H135, H145, H160, and H175, is designed to optimise the helicopter's performance and reduce operating and maintenance costs.
Bruno Even, CEO of Airbus Helicopters, emphasised that the H140's design was developed based on customer requirements. The H140's maintenance plan has been optimised, harmonising airframe and engine maintenance schedules and allowing longer intervals between inspections.
The H140 is a 3-tonne class rotorcraft, complementing Airbus Helicopters' current light twin offering for various markets. Its rear loading capabilities allow the use of different types of stretcher systems, making it a versatile multi-mission helicopter in the light twin-engined category.
The H140's bearingless main rotor design simplifies maintenance, improves serviceability, and enhances passenger and crew comfort. The helicopter boasts a larger cabin space, large windows, and an optimised cabin layout, providing an unparalleled flying experience.
The H140 will enter service in 2028 for the emergency medical services segment. With its powerful engines, advanced avionics, and optimised maintenance plan, the H140 is poised to set new standards in the light twin-engine helicopter market.
Additional images and footage of the H140 are available via the provided link. For more information about this groundbreaking helicopter, visit Airbus Helicopters' official website.
The H140's advanced design and next-generation features have the potential to redefine the light twin-engine helicopter class in the aerospace industry. With its superior aerodynamic efficiency, innovative avionics system, and optimized maintenance plan, the H140 could also impact the finance sector, offering enhanced performance, reduced operating costs, and increased reliability for various missions.
