Airbus Helicopters has officially introduced its new H140 helicopter at the VERTICON show in Dallas, Texas.
The H140 is a multi-mission, light twin-engine rotorcraft in the 3-tonne class. It is designed to serve the emergency medical services, passenger transport, and private and business aviation markets. Entry into service is slated for 2028, starting with the emergency medical services segment.
Introducing a new helicopter to the light twin engine segment is a testimony to our commitment to meeting our customers’ evolving mission requirements, leveraging our R&T programmes such as Bluecopter.
Bruno Even, Airbus Helicopters CEO
Bruno said the H140 was developed in collaboration with H135 customers, adding that it incorporates customer requirements, which focused on cabin space and optimized engine performance for better payload and range.
The H140 boasts several innovations, including a T-shaped tail boom with an optimized Fenestron for reduced noise, a five-blade bearingless main rotor, and new, powerful engines. The cabin is larger, featuring large windows and an optimized layout that can comfortably accommodate up to six passengers.
Accessibility is a key design element, according to Airbus. The H140 features large clamshell doors and a high tail boom to facilitate rear loading. This allows for various stretcher systems, including intensive care units and transport incubators. Large sliding doors further improve cabin access.
Powered by the Safran Arrius 2E 700 shp engine, the H140 promises best-in-class payload/range performance. Its dual-channel FADEC system ensures performance in all engines operative (AEO) conditions and considerable power reserves in one engine inoperative (OEI) scenarios.
The H140 incorporates the same five-bladed rotor system introduced on the H145 in 2019. The bearingless design simplifies maintenance, improves reliability, and enhances passenger comfort. Operators will benefit from an optimized maintenance plan with longer inspection intervals, reducing operating costs. Airbus will have four dedicated prototypes, with flight testing already underway in Donauwörth.
The H140 will also feature Airbus Helicopters’ Helionix avionics suite, which is also found in the H135, H145, H160, and H175. In addition to the 4-axis autopilot, Helionix offers an innovative cockpit layout to improve situational awareness, reduce pilot workload, and increase safety.
Leave a comment