Certified by the FAA

Finally, one could almost say. The H160 has received its FAA type certificate, the process having been delayed after being directly impacted by, among other things, the pandemic, which explains the three years needed to arrive at the long-awaited delivery of the certificate. But all that is now history, as Airbus Helicopters has received Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) certification for the H160 helicopter, marking an important milestone in the aircraft's development and positioning it for entry into the US market. "We are delighted to receive FAA certification for the H160, which is testament to many years of hard work and commitment by our teams to deliver this multi-role helicopter to the North American customers who have already placed their trust in the H160," said Bruno Even, CEO of Airbus Helicopters. "This aircraft features the highest level of innovation and we are confident that its advanced capabilities, combined with our strong customer support network, will consolidate its position as the preferred choice for customers in the United States," he added. 

Blue Edge, Helionix and more than 100 H160s on order 

The H160's features include noise-reducing Blue Edge rotor blades, a tilted Fenestron tail rotor for greater payload, and Airbus Helicopters' Helionix avionics suite to reduce pilot workload. The H160 previously received certification from the European Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) in July 2020. Airbus Helicopters has received orders for more than 100 H160s from customers around the world, including more than a dozen U.S. customers. The H160 has entered service in Japan, Brazil, Saudi Arabia and Europe, and the fleet has accumulated more than 1,700 flight hours.

Versatility at heart 

The H160 is a multi-role helicopter suitable for a variety of missions in different market segments, including offshore transport for the energy industry, private and business aviation, emergency medical services, commercial passenger transport and public services such as search and rescue and law enforcement. With its exceptional range, speed and efficiency, the H160 offers operators a new level of performance and flexibility.

A first Level D FFS flight simulator 

Plans have been underway for several years to ensure a smooth entry into service of the H160, including the previously announced addition of the first Level D H160 full-flight simulator (FFS) in North America. The FFS is expected to be ready for use as early as the second half of 2025, and will be located in the Helisim Simulation Center inside the Airbus Helicopters, Inc. facility in Grand Prairie, Texas.