Strong 2023 sales figures reported for Airbus Helicopters, showcasing robust demand
In 2023, Airbus Helicopters experienced solid growth in orders, deliveries, and innovation, particularly in the defense and sustainability domains. The company delivered 138 helicopters, a 12% increase from the previous year, contributing to a 16% revenue rise to around €3.7 billion.
The growth was driven by strong program execution and expanding service activities within Airbus Defense and Space, which saw overall revenues increase by 17% to €5.8 billion. Key defense innovation included enhanced interoperability between the Airbus H225M Caracal helicopter and the A400M Atlas transport aircraft, notably via in-flight refueling capability.
The French Air and Space Force approved the A400M's ability to refuel helicopters in flight early in 2025, enabling the H225M to extend its operational range substantially, thus enhancing mission endurance and versatility.
Regarding sustainability, while explicit 2023 sustainability initiatives by Airbus Helicopters are not detailed, the company’s commitment to innovation and program execution likely aligns with broader Airbus goals of reducing environmental impact.
Innovation was not limited to defense, as Airbus Helicopters also tested an electric flight control system, allowing for a single pilot stick to replace all three conventional controls, a first in the helicopter industry. The German armed forces also signed the largest H145M contract with up to 82 light attack helicopters at the end of 2023.
Other significant events included the first flight of the NH90 Sea Tiger, the state-of-the-art anti-submarine warfare helicopter for the German Navy, and the VSR700 demonstrating its performance during sea trials from a French Navy multi-mission frigate. The H175M performed flight demonstrations in the extreme hot and high conditions of the desert in Saudi Arabia.
Airbus Helicopters also made strides in research and development, with the power-on of CityAirbus NextGen and the first flight of the DisruptiveLab demonstrator featuring a new aerodynamic architecture. The PioneerLab was unveiled to test hybridisation for twin-engine aircraft and introduce bio-based materials.
The company logged 410 gross orders in 2023, with a net of 393. Airbus Helicopters also reported that 140 new helicopters were covered by "by-the-hour" contracts, bringing the total to 2760 helicopters. Airbus plans to continue rolling out the use of SAF to other sites in 2024.
Airbus' 2023 full year financial results will be disclosed on 15 February 2024. With operations in 47 countries and orders from 179 customers, Airbus Helicopters continues to be a leader in the global helicopter industry.
- Airbus Helicopters' success in 2023, marked by a 12% increase in helicopter deliveries and a 16% revenue rise in the helicopter industry, was bolstered by their advancements in defense, particularly the enhancement of interoperability between the H225M Caracal helicopter and the A400M Atlas transport aircraft in the finance sector.
- Additionally, Airbus Helicopters showcased their commitment to technology by testing an electric flight control system and making significant strides in research and development, such as the power-on of CityAirbus NextGen, the first flight of the DisruptiveLab demonstrator, and the unveiling of PioneerLab – all aimed at reducing environmental impact and advancing the aerospace industry.
