Airbus Helicopters and SKYCO agree deal for six H175s

Airbus Helicopters and SKYCO have signed a contract for six H175s.

Airbus Helicopters and China’s SKYCO International Financial Leasing Co have signed a contract for six H175 helicopters to be deployed on critical missions.

SKYCO Leasing, a state-owned enterprise belonging to China’s Guangdong Province, will deploy the aircraft on search and rescue (SAR), emergency medical services, disaster relief and other public services missions in China.

This cooperation goes far beyond the purchase of the H175s, said Bruno Even, CEO,  Airbus Helicopters. “It is an unmistakable sign of Guangdong Province’s willingness to lead the development of the helicopter market in the southern region of China,” he said. “We are proud that the Guangdong Provincial Government has chosen Airbus Helicopters to carry out this ambitious cooperation project together.”

In addition to the aircraft purchase, Airbus and SKYCO have agreed to reinforce the manufacturer’s footprint in China Guangdong Province and the Greater Bay Area. This involves the joint development of support and services activities and a partnership to foster general aviation by promoting the reform to open low-altitude airspace. The partners will also explore an effective business model adapted to the Chinese aviation market that will contribute to regional economic growth.

The 55 super-medium H175s currently in service have logged more than 210,000 flight hours, of which 184,000 in the energy sector. Its long-range, payload and smooth flight qualities make the aircraft the optimal solution for a wide range of onshore and offshore mission profiles, according to Airbus Helicopters. Typical missions include: disaster relief, SAR and other public services, plus crew change and private and business aviation.