Airbus Helicopters records 455 orders and 361 deliveries in 2024

The company delivered 361 helicopters during the year, securing a 57% share of the civil and parapublic market. CEO Bruno Even attributed the company’s success to stable growth and customer trust, noting a near 10% increase in order volume for the second consecutive year.

The Super Puma programme saw robust demand, with 58 orders from key clients such as the German Bundespolizei, Japan Coast Guard, and the Romanian Ministry of National Defence. Additionally, the NH90 platform underwent significant upgrades, including the launch of the Block 1 upgrade and the delivery of new configurations for various defence forces.

In defence and security, the H145 and H145M programmes gained new customers, including the Brunei Air Force and the Irish Ministry of Defence. Airbus Helicopters also played a crucial role in disaster relief efforts, with platforms like the U.S. National Guard’s Lakota and the H135 supporting emergency operations.

Innovations in unmanned aerial systems (UAS) and advanced capabilities continued, as Airbus integrated Flexrotor into its portfolio and demonstrated crewed-uncrewed teaming with the VSR700 and H130. Progress on the European Next Generation Rotorcraft initiative further highlighted Airbus’ commitment to future technologies.

On the civil side, the Racer compound helicopter exceeded its speed target of 407 km/h during initial test flights. Meanwhile, the CityAirbus NextGen achieved its maiden flight, marking a milestone in urban air mobility. The H175 advanced towards certification with successful de-icing tests, and the H160 continued its global deployment, with over 30 units now in operation.

Airbus Helicopters also celebrated several significant anniversaries in 2024. These included 40 years of operations in Fort Erie, Canada, and 50 years in the UK, where a new facility was inaugurated in Oxford. Plans for further expansion include an H125 assembly line in India in collaboration with TATA.

Sustainability remained a priority, with Airbus increasing the use of sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) to nearly 20% across its testing and training operations. Facilities in Oxford, UK, also adopted SAF, underlining the company’s commitment to reducing its carbon footprint.