Airbus Helicopters: The Global Leader in Vertical Aviation
Airbus Helicopters, a 100% division of the European aerospace giant Airbus, stands as the world’s leading manufacturer of civil helicopters and one of the top builders of military aircraft. The company heavily dominates its sector, commanding approximately 50% of the global civil and parapublic market share.
The manufacturer offers a comprehensive portfolio of aircraft designed to meet all sizes and operational requirements, ranging from light single-engine helicopters to heavy military airlifters. Its civil and public safety models are identified under the “H” nomenclature.
Airbus Helicopters’ fleet is highly renowned for emergency medical services, law enforcement, and transport missions, structured around four main aircraft families:
H125 / H130: True global best-sellers, these ultra-versatile light helicopters are the ultimate go-to reference for aerial work and tourism.
H135 / H145: Known as the kings of Emergency Medical Services (EMS) and favored by police forces worldwide, they feature the iconic Fenestron shrouded tail rotor—a major innovation that significantly reduces noise and enhances safety on the ground.
H160: The company’s recent technological flagship, this model is a hub of innovation, featuring specially shaped noise-reducing rotor blades and simplified, next-generation avionics.
H175 / H225 Super Puma: These heavy-lift helicopters are custom-built for high-capacity missions, notably passenger transport to offshore oil rigs and challenging search and rescue (SAR) operations at sea.
