Strong showings for Airbus Helicopters in sales during 2023
Airbus Helicopters Makes Significant Strides in 2023
In a year marked by innovation and advancement, Airbus Helicopters has made significant strides in enhancing operational capabilities and pushing the boundaries of military aviation technology.
One of the most notable achievements in 2023 was the full validation of the Airbus A400M Atlas aircraft's ability to refuel the H225M Caracal helicopter in-flight. This development, a first for the French Armed Forces, extends the operational range of the H225M to over 10 hours and more than 1,000 km, making it a more versatile choice for demanding missions such as special operations and search and rescue in combat zones.
This integration of two major Airbus platforms—the A400M heavy transport aircraft and the H225M helicopter—has created a "winning duo" that supports long-range mission capabilities for the French Air and Space Force. The successful demonstration of in-flight refuelling between these aircraft types expands the tactical flexibility and endurance of helicopter operations, marking a significant advancement in military aviation technology.
Beyond this, Airbus Helicopters also unveiled the PioneerLab, a facility aimed at testing hybridisation for twin-engine aircraft and introducing bio-based materials. The company also logged 410 gross orders (net: 393) in 2023, with deliveries of 346 helicopters to 179 customers in 47 countries.
Airbus Helicopters also made strides in autonomous flight technology, testing advanced autonomous features in partnership with Airbus UpNext to simplify mission preparation and management. The company also started the assembly of CityAirbus NextGen in Donauwörth.
The German armed forces signed a significant contract at the end of 2023, agreeing to purchase up to 82 light attack helicopters of the H145M model. The Spanish Navy also took delivery of their first H135 helicopters in 2023.
Airbus Helicopters also expanded the use of SAF to other sites in 2024, with SAF being used for Airbus Helicopters' development test flights, training, deliveries, and ferry flights to 10%. The company's CEO, Bruno Even, also stated the growth despite global inflation and instability.
The first flight of the DisruptiveLab demonstrator took place in 2023, and Airbus Helicopters, in partnership with Airbus UpNext, tested an electric flight control system, allowing for a single pilot stick to replace all three conventional controls, a first in the helicopter industry.
Airbus Helicopters' 2023 full year financial results will be disclosed on 15 February 2024. The company also opened a regional headquarters in Riyadh to bolster commercial, defense, space, and helicopter operations in the Middle East, though this is more a strategic business expansion than a direct technological innovation.
References: 1. Airbus Helicopters 2. Airbus Helicopters Press Release 3. Airbus Helicopters Press Release
The integration of two major Airbus platforms, the A400M heavy transport aircraft and the H225M helicopter, has opened up new possibilities for long-range mission capabilities in military aviation, particularly in supportive roles for the French Air and Space Force.* Beyond military improvements, Airbus Helicopters also made progress in sports aviation technology, testing advanced autonomous features and pursuing the development of electric flight control systems, advancing the helicopter industry as a whole.
