First National Operator for Parapublic Missions
Airbus Helicopters announced on 26 September that the Philippine Coast Guard has ordered a single H145 helicopter, making it the first H145 parapublic operator in the Philippines.
The new 4t-class twin-engine helicopter is specially equipped with HF radios, emergency flotation gear, fast roping, cargo sling, search light, and electro-optical systems to perform critical missions including search and rescue, medical evacuation, maritime patrol and law enforcement. The latest contract will also encompass on-site technical support and continuing airworthiness management organisation services, fully supported by Airbus’ team in the country.
Airbus sees the H145 as “the perfect complement” to the BO105 aircraft that have been in service for the last 40 years. “We have full confidence in the H145’s ability to support the agency’s work, coupled with our dedicated in-country customer centre, which stays committed to supporting its operations in close proximity,” commented Head of Southeast Asia and Pacific for Airbus Helicopters, Philippe Monteux.
The H145 is the market leader for rescue missions, with over 1,400 helicopters of the H145 family in service globally, and achieving close to five million flight hours. Due to its small footprint, agility and designed-in mission capability and flexibility, the H145 is ideal for a wide range of missions. It is equipped with Airbus’ state-of-the-art HELIONIX avionics suite and 4-axis autopilot system, which helps to reduce pilot workload during missions. In the Philippines alone, there are currently four H145 helicopters operating in the country, mainly for business aviation purposes.
