Bahrain's Ministry of Interior purchases nine Airbus H145 helicopters.
The European aircraft manufacturer, Airbus, has announced a significant upgrade to its best-selling light twin-engine helicopter, the H145. The new version of the H145, equipped with a five-bladed main rotor system, is set to make its mark in Bahrain, where it will be operated by the Police Aviation Command for law enforcement missions and emergency medical services.
The innovative five-bladed rotor system boosts the helicopter's useful load by an impressive 150 kilograms, making the H145 more versatile for a variety of roles. This increased payload capacity is particularly beneficial for missions in emergency medical services, law enforcement, and utility operations.
The new rotor design not only improves the helicopter's performance but also simplifies maintenance operations. The bearingless design reduces mechanical complexity, leading to improved reliability and decreased downtime. This, in turn, contributes to a smoother flight experience for passengers and crew.
Powering the H145 are twin Safran Arriel 2E engines, known for their high efficiency and reliability. The helicopter is also equipped with advanced technologies such as full authority digital engine control (FADEC) and the Helionix avionics suite. The Helionix suite includes a four-axis autopilot, designed to reduce pilot workload, and enhance operational efficiency.
The H145 is renowned for its low noise and emissions, making it one of the quietest and most environmentally friendly helicopters in its class. This particular low acoustic footprint is another factor that makes the H145 an ideal choice for public safety missions.
Olivier Michalon, EVP for Global Business of Airbus Helicopters, expressed pride that Bahrain has chosen the H145 for its public safety missions. "The H145 is a key asset for public safety missions around the world and in the region," he said.
Airbus Helicopters has signed a contract with Bahrain's Minister of Interior, Sheikh Rashid bin Abdullah Al Khalifa, for the purchase of nine H145 helicopters. With over 60 already in service in the Middle East, the H145 continues to be a popular choice for its versatility and performance.
To date, there are more than 1,700 H145 family helicopters in service, having logged a total of eight million flight hours. The demand for the H145 continues to grow, as it proves to be a reliable and efficient solution for a variety of missions.
The five-bladed rotor system and advanced technologies in the H145 make it a valuable asset in aerospace and finance industries, as it is highly efficient and versatile. Given its popularity in the Middle East, the H145's success in the industry is further cemented by the Bahraini Police Aviation Command's acquisition of nine helicopters, marking its entry into the Bahraini finance and law enforcement sectors.
