Delivery of Inaugural Airbus H160 Helicopter Happens in China by GDAT
The Airbus H160 helicopter, a cutting-edge solution in its sector, has made its entry into China, marking the start of H160 operations in the country. On August 12, 2025, Airbus Helicopters delivered the first H160 helicopter in China to GDAT.
This sophisticated aircraft is renowned for its power, agility, and lightweight design, optimized aerodynamically to deliver high flight efficiency, reduced fuel consumption, and enhanced range. The helicopter is equipped with two Safran Arrano turbines generating up to 1,300 horsepower, enabling a top speed of approximately 380 km/h (205 knots) with an autonomy of up to 800 km (500 miles).
The H160 helicopter integrates advanced technologies such as Fly-By-Wire controls, a digital cockpit, modern navigation systems, and next-generation communications. Its chassis and high-end suspension system provide a smooth and precise flight experience, suitable for various operations including VIP transport and offshore missions. The cabin is designed for spaciousness, comfort, low vibration, and large windows, making the H160 one of the quietest helicopters in its class due to noise-reducing rotor blade design.
In addition to its civilian uses, the H160M variant, designed for military applications, incorporates advanced sensors, self-protection systems, and the capability to carry various weaponry. Delivery to the French Armed Forces is planned to start in 2028 with operational and maintenance support from Airbus.
While the H160 is currently in service in China and France, specific details about other countries operating it are not explicitly stated in the search results. However, it is known to be adopted by the French military (H160M version) and likely utilized in multiple capacities internationally given its versatile design and Airbus's global customer base. Commonly, such advanced helicopters are in service in European countries and elsewhere, but without the search data confirming precise operators beyond China and France, a definitive list cannot be provided here.
The H160 helicopter will primarily be used for the energy sector in China, including offshore transportation for oil and gas platforms, wind farms, and harbour piloting. It is also capable of performing a wide range of missions, including law enforcement, offshore transportation, search and rescue, private and business aviation, and emergency medical services.
Peter JIANG, Chairman of GDAT, stated that the introduction of the H160 aircraft continues GDAT's commitment to providing state-of-the-art helicopter technology. Colin James, Managing Director of Airbus Helicopters in China, expressed excitement about the introduction of the H160 into the Chinese market. Five out of the fifty H160 helicopters ordered by GDAT have been delivered as of August 12, 2025.
The delivery of the H160 helicopter underlines GDAT's commitment to the safety, quality, and efficiency of their operations. The H160 helicopter's service in China marks its expansion into the Asian market.
Key Features of the H160 Helicopter
- Engines: Two Safran Arrano turbines, 1,300 hp total
- Maximum speed: ~380 km/h (205 knots)
- Range/autonomy: Up to 800 km (500 miles)
- Technology: Fly-By-Wire, digital cockpit, advanced navigation and communication
- Design: Aerodynamic, lightweight, noise-reducing rotors
- Cabin: Spacious, low vibration, large windows
- Uses: VIP transport, offshore missions, military (H160M)
The H160 helicopter, with its advanced technology such as Fly-By-Wire controls and digital cockpit, is set to revolutionize the energy sector in China, particularly in offshore transportation for oil and gas platforms, wind farms, and harbor piloting. This expansion into China marks the helicopter's entry into the Asian market, further broadening Airbus's global footprint in the finance and energy sectors.
As GDAT continues to invest in cutting-edge helicopter technology with the H160, the tech-savvy aircraft's potential applications span across various operations, including law enforcement, private aviation, search and rescue, and emergency medical services, stirring growth prospects in the technology and finance industries.
