Airbus Helicopters officially introduced its newest light twin-engine helicopter, the H140, at the VERTICON exhibition held in Dallas. The model, weighing three tons, was developed to meet various operations, including medical evacuation, passenger transport, and executive aviation.
+ Click here to watch the Airbus H140 video
The H140 stands out for offering a spacious and versatile cabin, allowing optimized accommodation for stretchers and intensive care equipment, making it an ideal option for rescue operations and medical emergencies.
The helicopter features a new T-shaped tail boom and a covered Fenestron tail rotor, significantly reducing noise levels. Additionally, its five-blade main rotor has no bearings, simplifying maintenance and improving operational efficiency.
H140. Photo: Airbus Helicopters
Advanced performance and safety
The H140 will be equipped with a 700 hp Safran Arrius 2E engine, providing the best payload capacity and range in its category. The FADEC (Full Authority Digital Engine Control) system enhances reliability in the event of an engine failure, making operations safer.
Airbus plans to develop four prototypes of the H140, with one already in the testing phase at the company’s factory in Germany. Sales of the model are expected to begin in 2026, with the first deliveries scheduled for 2028. The official price has not yet been disclosed, but the manufacturer has stated that it will offer “competitive prices.”
H140. Photo: Airbus Helicopters
High demand and signed contracts
The announcement of the H140 generated significant market interest, resulting in 64 confirmed orders immediately after the presentation. Among the major contracts are:
- Global Medical Response (GMR) – The company, a leader in emergency medical services and air medical transport, signed a contract to acquire up to 15 H140 helicopters to strengthen its operations.
- ADAC Luftrettung (Germany) and ÖAMTC Flugrettung (Austria) – Together, these two companies, also specializing in air medical services, ordered five units of the H140.
- STAT MedEvac (USA) – Specialized in air medical transport, the company ordered up to three H140 helicopters to expand its fleet.
- Metro Aviation (USA) – Based in Shreveport, Louisiana, the company formalized the largest individual order, securing up to 36 H140 helicopters in the medical rescue configuration.
H140. Photo: Airbus Helicopters
The launch of the H140 marks a significant advancement in the light twin-engine helicopter market, combining superior performance, enhanced safety, and cutting-edge technology. With strong initial demand and contracts already signed, expectations are high for this new model to become one of the sector’s highlights in the coming years.
Source and images: Airbus Helicopters. This content was created with the help of AI and reviewed by the editorial team.
