First H130 helicopter delivered in Bhutan

Airbus Helicopters has delivered the first H130 aircraft to the Kingdom of Bhutan. This is the first of two helicopters acquired by the Royal Bhutan Helicopter Services Limited (RBHSL) to serve parapublic and commercial missions.

The second H130 is expected to be delivered in June 2016.

“We are thrilled to be the first to receive the H130 in Bhutan. Now, we have a helicopter proudly Bhutanese-owned, to serve our nation and boost our economy.”

Chewang Gyeltshen, CEO of the Royal Bhutan Helicopter Services Limited said “We are thrilled to be the first to receive the H130 in Bhutan. Now, we have a helicopter proudly Bhutanese-owned, to serve our nation and boost our economy. We are confident that our newly-acquired helicopter will fulfil our different needs ranging from emergency missions, passenger transport to fire fighting.”

RBHSL H130s will be equipped with a tracking system, cargo sling, bambi bucket and stretcher to perform a wide range of parapublic missions, such as emergency medical services (EMS), firefighting and disaster management. The helicopter can be converted for VIP transport or for panoramic helitour flights.

“Bhutan presents a new market for helicopters. We are honoured that Airbus Helicopters is given the great opportunity to provide the Kingdom’s first helicopter.”

Derek Sharples, managing director of Airbus Helicopters Southeast Asia added: “Bhutan presents a new market for helicopters. We are honoured that Airbus Helicopters is given the great opportunity to provide the Kingdom’s first helicopter. We are committed to ensuring full support and comprehensive services to RBHSL in this new market for the years to come. This is also an important milestone for our company. We are delighted to gain the confidence and trust from Royal Bhutan Helicopter Services Limited, as well as continuing the legacy of Airbus’ presence in Bhutan.”

Airbus Helicopters H130 delivery in Paro, Bhutan (Credit: Airbus Helicopters Southeast Asia)