Marignane. Airbus Helicopters and PHI Group (PHI) have signed a framework agreement that includes commitments for 20 super-medium H175 helicopters and 8 H160s to serve the energy market worldwide, including in the US. These 28 state-of-the-art helicopters will better position PHI to respond to the energy market’s expected growing offshore transportation needs.These commitments are composed of firm orders as well as purchase options that PHI may exercise during the course of the framework agreement.
“PHI strives to lead the industry in operating the safest and most reliable fleet of helicopters. This agreement is a component of our broader strategy to bring new technology into an industry that has experienced a strong rebound after years of underinvestment. We look forward to our continued partnership with Airbus as we prepare to enter these aircraft into service with our customers around the world,” said Scott McCarty, CEO of PHI Group.
“We are proud of our ongoing partnership with PHI, a company recognized in the industry for its leadership in innovation and safety. We thank them for renewing their confidence in the H160 and for adding the H175, for their long-range missions, to their growing fleet. At a time when passenger safety, economic competitiveness, and energy efficiency are key to conquering any market, the H160 and the H175 are reliable options for the years to come and we look forward to supporting their operations worldwide,” said Bruno Even, CEO of Airbus Helicopters.
PHI has been supporting the energy industry for 74 years. Today, PHI operates over 200 helicopters across the globe serving a number of markets, including energy and air medical. PHI’s Airbus fleet consists of H125, H135, H145, H160 and H175 family helicopters – with the H175 being the latest addition.
In service since 2015, Airbus’ H175 belongs to the super-medium class of helicopters, combining long-range with smooth flight qualities, making it the perfect solution for several mission profiles, including offshore crew change, public services, and private and business aviation. 54 H175s currently in service have accumulated around 195,000 flight hours, of which 170,000 are flying for the energy sector.
Designed as a multi-role helicopter capable of performing a wide range of missions, the H160 integrates Airbus’ latest technological innovations. With its light maintenance plan, the H160 optimises operating costs and offers a new standard in availability. The helicopter is powered by two of the latest Arrano engines from Safran Helicopter Engines that offer a 15% reduction in fuel burn. Both the H175 and H160 are already certified to fly with as much as 50% sustainable aviation fuel.
