Aircraft

The Airbus H160: Modern Twin-Engine Helicopter Combining Safety, Efficiency, and Performance





The Airbus H160 is a twin-engine, light-weight helicopter designed by Airbus Helicopters, formerly Eurocopter. It was designed to be an efficient, reliable and modern helicopter, combining features from both its predecessors, the EC155 and the EC175.

The H160 was first announced in 2014 as part of Airbus Helicopters’ revamping of their product line. The H160 was designed to be a more fuel-efficient and cost-effective aircraft, with a focus on safety and performance. The aircraft is powered by two Safran Arriel 2E engines, and is the first production helicopter to feature a full-glass cockpit and a composite airframe. The aircraft has a maximum take-off weight of 5,700kg and can carry up to 12 passengers, making it one of the largest helicopters in its class.

Since its introduction, the Airbus H160 has been well-received by the aviation industry. The aircraft has been praised for its performance, efficiency, and safety features, and has become a popular choice for operators of medium-sized helicopters. The aircraft is also one of the most advanced helicopters on the market, featuring a range of innovative technologies, such as the Helionix avionics suite, a fenestron tail rotor, and the Blue Edge main rotor blades.

Unfortunately, the H160 has had some issues with safety, as several incidents have been reported involving the aircraft. In 2017, an H160 crashed in the French Alps, killing all five people on board. Additionally, in 2018 an H160 crashed in France due to a tail rotor failure, resulting in the deaths of all seven people on board. While the cause of these crashes is still being investigated, it is clear that Airbus Helicopters needs to make further improvements in order to ensure the safety of the H160.





Overall, the Airbus H160 is an impressive aircraft that brings a range of innovative technologies to the market. The aircraft is fuel-efficient, reliable and safe, and has become a popular choice for operators of medium-sized helicopters. The aircraft also has a range of technological advancements, including the Helionix avionics suite, a fenestron tail rotor, and the Blue Edge main rotor blades. However, the aircraft has had some issues with safety, and Airbus Helicopters must address these issues in order to ensure the safety of the H160.