Displaying Airbus Helicopters' offerings and services at the inaugural European Rotors event
Airbus Helicopters Showcases Sustainable Aerospace Initiatives at European Rotors 2021
At the European Rotors 2021 exhibition in Cologne, Airbus Helicopters unveiled a series of initiatives aimed at promoting sustainable aviation and reducing environmental impact. The focus was primarily on the adoption of sustainable aviation fuels (SAF) and the development of advanced helicopter technologies.
Airbus is actively supporting and integrating SAF into its operations. These fuels, produced from sustainable raw materials, can reduce CO2 emissions by up to 90% over their life cycle compared to conventional fossil fuels. The company has partnered with TotalEnergies to supply SAF and jointly develop 100% sustainable aviation fuels. This partnership facilitates immediate reductions in carbon emissions without requiring modifications to existing aircraft or infrastructure. SAF can currently be blended up to 50% with fossil fuels to power aircraft, including helicopters, making SAF a practical near-term solution for decarbonizing air transport.
In addition to SAF, Airbus Helicopters highlighted advancements in newer helicopter models such as the H160 and its military variant H160M Guepard. Although mainly focused on military and government applications, these modern designs incorporate materials and technologies that can contribute to overall efficiency and potentially lower emissions.
While no specific new electric or hybrid helicopter models were showcased at the event, the emphasis on SAF usage, partnerships for fuel innovation, and next-generation helicopter designs collectively represent Airbus Helicopters’ latest sustainable aerospace initiatives at European Rotors 2021 in Cologne. These efforts align with the broader industry goal to reduce carbon emissions and improve environmental sustainability in vertical flight operations.
The European Rotors exhibition, which took place from 16-18 November 2021, also featured other highlights such as key upgrades and the latest developments in helicopter training. A five-bladed H145 for medical evacuation operated by German air rescue service ADAC Luftrettung was displayed, showcasing the simplicity of the new bearingless main rotor design that eases maintenance operations, improving its serviceability and reliability.
Moreover, the exhibition provided an opportunity for showgoers to learn about Airbus Helicopters' sustainable aerospace initiatives. The AirbusWorld collaborative customer platform now hosts the unique Airbus Helicopter's online Marketplace, which recently expanded its portfolio of helicopter parts and products and welcomed new vendors. Approximately 20% of the Airbus helicopter fleet is covered by HCare global support contracts.
The H125 power upgrade and the H125/H130 fuel system upgrade (the Crash Resistant Fuel System) were on display, enhancing operational safety. Airbus Corporate Helicopters showcased an ACH125 on static display, a model designed for customers who appreciate the experience of flying, featuring the ACH Line interior. Over 1,515 H145 family helicopters are in service worldwide, logging a total of more than six million flight hours.
Urban Air Mobility (UAM) with electric vehicles is part of Airbus's roadmap towards zero emission air travel. The CityAirbus NextGen, a fully electric helicopter equipped with fixed wings, a V-shaped tail, and eight electrically powered propellers, was designed to carry up to four passengers in a zero emissions flight with an 80 km range and a cruise speed of 120 km/h. A scale model of the CityAirbus NextGen was showcased at the European Rotors exhibition for the first time.
For HEMS (Health Emergency Medical Services), there are over 470 helicopters of the H145 family conducting air rescue missions worldwide. The latest upgrade of the H145 adds a new, innovative five-bladed rotor to this best-selling multi-mission helicopter, increasing its useful load by 150 kg.
Airbus Helicopters attended the European Rotors exhibition to connect with customers, partners, suppliers, and industry players, furthering their commitment to sustainable aerospace and innovative helicopter technology.
- Airbus Helicopters is partnering with TotalEnergies to supply sustainable aviation fuels (SAF) and jointly develop 100% sustainable aviation fuels, indicating their initiative to integrate SAF into their operations and reduce carbon emissions.
- In addition to their focus on SAF, Airbus Helicopters also showcased advancements in newer helicopter models such as the H160 and its military variant H160M Guepard, which incorporate materials and technologies that can contribute to overall efficiency and potentially lower emissions, aligning with their goals for sustainable aerospace initiatives.
