Airbus presents H135 for US Navy
Airbus Helicopters is presenting its H135 helicopter as the US Navy’s future training helicopter at the Naval Helicopter Association’s Fleet Fly-in at Naval Air Station Whiting Field in Pensacola, Florida.
Airbus pilots will conduct orientation flights with US Navy pilots to demonstrate the H135’s capabilities.
The FAA instrument flight rules-certified H135 aircraft is equipped with four-axis autopilot and one engine inoperable training modes, providing the ability to train pilots over water and in reduced visibility.
The twin-engine H135 helicopter features the Helionix digital avionics suite and an advanced cockpit design that improves pilots’ situational awareness while reducing workload. The high set main rotor and Fenestron shrouded tail rotor also contribute to improved operational safety.
Should Airbus be successful with the offering, the company plans to produce the H135 trainers for the navy at its facility in Columbus, Mississippi.
Scott Tumpak, VP of military programs at Airbus Helicopters, said: ‘As a twin-engine helicopter, the H135 provides a training environment most similar to the navy’s warfighting rotorcraft fleet, creating opportunities for cost and operational efficiencies compared to a single-engine aircraft.
'A multi-mission and economical workhorse, the H135 is the right tool to support US Navy initial pilot training.’
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