AH_Xinmei

Three Chinese firms Fujian Xinmei General Aviation (GAC), Guangdong Baiyun GAC and Yunnan Fengxiang GAC have signed a deal with Airbus Helicopters to buy 123 light single-engine helicopters from Ecureuil family and the light twin-engine EC135.

The rotorcraft will be deployed for various general aviation purposes, including utility work, aerial tours, passenger transport, business aviation, emergency medical services and search and rescue.

Airbus Helicopters CEO Guillaume Faury said: "We are grateful to the operators for selecting Airbus Helicopters to be their partner in developing the general aviation market to serve China’s needs.

"It is evident that China’s relaxation of its low-altitude airspace regulations is enabling the country’s burgeoning helicopter market to realise its potential."

Fujian Xinmei will buy five AS350 B3e units, which will complement the operator’s existing AS350 B3e rotorcraft.

Slated for delivery this year, the AS350 B3e will position Fujian Xinmei as one of the leading operators of this variant in China.

"It is evident that China’s relaxation of its low-altitude airspace regulations is enabling the country’s burgeoning helicopter market to realise its potential."

The company has also agreed to buy an additional 50 units in the next six years.

Guangdong Baiyun will purchase 50 helicopters, including Ecureuil and EC135 variants.

An EC130 T2 from the Ecureuil family is scheduled for delivery this year with the first three EC135 T2e expected by April 2015.

The remaining aircraft are expected to be delivered in the next five years as the company expands into new services, including helicopter emergency medical services (HEMS), search-and-rescue and corporate transportation.

Yunnan Fengxiang has placed an order for 18 AS350 B3e helicopters, which will complement existing rotorcraft.

The first four helicopters will be delivered this year, with the remaining 14 expected in the next two years.

Fengxiang plans to provide services for multiple missions, including aerial tours, business aviation as well as HEMS.

Image: Officials at the signing of new helicopter deal. Photo: courtesy of Airbus Helicopters China.

Defence Technology