Airbus Helicopters delivered the world’s first ACH160 to an undisclosed Brazilian customer on the eve of the 17th Annual Latin American Business Aviation Conference & Exhibition (LABACE) in São Paulo. According to our media partner Aeroin, the aircraft could be destined for the fleet of the Romanof holding.
The operation had been announced at the 2018 FIDAE airshow. Since then, the European manufacturer has closed sales for two other units in Brazil. The three helicopters crossed the Atlantic onboard the Airbus A300-600ST, known as «Beluga», in its first operation to Latin America.
Two of the helicopters, which will be registered as PS-AXM and PS-BXM, will be delivered to Helibras, a Brazilian subsidiary of Airbus Helicopters. The other one, to be owned by the undisclosed customer, will be registered PS-PCT.
«We are very proud that the world’s first ACH160 has been delivered here in Brazil», said Jean-Luc Alfonsi, Managing Director of Helibras. «We are confident the ACH160 will set new standards for customers and operators wanting to make a distinctive choice in terms of safety, comfort and performance», he added.
According to data provided by the Brazilian General Aviation Association (ABAG), more than 2.500 airports and 1.300 heliports in the country are served by business jets, turboprops, piston aircraft and helicopters for corporate aviation services. «The growing general aviation market in Brazil is crucial for increasing economic and social productivity, as well for maintaining the country’s air connectivity», Alfonsi said.
The ACH160 is the latest member of the ACH helicopter family and the most technologically advanced aircraft in its class. According to Airbus, it consumes 15% less fuel compared to its main competitors. In addition, it offers 20% more volume per passenger compared to previous-generation medium twin-engine helicopters.
The model is available in three versions: Line, Line with Lounge package and Exclusive. Each offers different levels of customisation to suit the requirements and needs of each customer. This possibility, together with its performance, makes it a versatile option for different types of operations.
The ACH160 can carry up to ten passengers and reach speeds of up to 155 knots per hour (287 kilometres per hour). It also has a range of up to 460 nautical miles (851 kilometres), depending on flight conditions.
