Following the announcement of a second A320/A321 production line in China and confirmation of a contract for 160 aircraft for companies in the country, Airbus said on Friday it had won a contract to supply 50 helicopters.
“During French President Macron’s visit to China, Airbus Helicopters signed a contract with GDAT, one of China’s leading helicopter lessors and operators, for 50 H160 helicopters. This contract is the largest single order for H160s in the civil and parapublic since the helicopter’s presentation in 2015”, welcomes Airbus in a press release.
The amount of the order was not disclosed.
China already flies 300 Airbus helicopters
The industrialist explains that the device will be used “in particular for the energy sector, including offshore transportation for oil and gas platforms, wind farms and port pilotage, as well as emergency medical services and other municipal public service missions.”
“We are honored that GDAT has decided to reinforce its 26-helicopter fleet made up exclusively of Airbus with the addition of 50 H160 helicopters. The H160 was originally designed as a multi-mission helicopter and is therefore well-suited to the multiple segments serving rent”. comments Bruno Even, CEO of Airbus Helicopters.
The company recalls that “today, more than 300 Airbus helicopters fly over China, serving more than 90 customers.”
“This contract is a good example of the importance of economic and commercial cooperation between France and China. We see a lot of potential for the H160 in China, in particular for the energy sector,” adds Peter Jiang, President of GDAT.
GDAT specializes in helicopter sales and rentals, maintenance and modifications, as well as emergency rescue flights and other government services.
Source: BFM TV
