Airbus Helicopters has launched its latest innovation, the H140, at the Verticon vertical lift industry show. The new light twin-engined helicopter is designed to set new standards in performance, cost-effectiveness, and comfort for passengers and crew. Targeting sectors such as emergency medical services (EMS), passenger transport, and private aviation, the H140 is a three-tonne class rotorcraft that complements Airbus’ existing light twin offerings. The helicopter is expected to enter service in 2028, starting with the EMS segment.
A Customer-Centric Design
Bruno Even, CEO of Airbus Helicopters, emphasized the company’s commitment to meeting customer needs. “The H140 reflects our dedication to evolving mission requirements, drawing on advanced research and technology programs like Bluecopter,” he said. “We collaborated closely with H135 operators to incorporate their feedback into the H140’s design. The result is a helicopter with a larger cabin, optimized engine performance, and best-in-class payload and range. This ensures our customers have access to the most competitive options available.”
Innovative Features for Enhanced Performance
At Verticon, Airbus showcased a full-scale EMS-configured model of the H140. The helicopter boasts several cutting-edge features, including a T-shaped tail boom with an optimized fenestron for reduced noise levels, a five-blade bearingless main rotor, and powerful new engines. The cabin is designed for accessibility and comfort, featuring large clamshell doors, a high tail boom, and spacious interiors that can accommodate up to six passengers. The rear loading system supports various stretcher configurations, including intensive care units and transport incubators, while large sliding doors ensure easy cabin access.
Unmatched Performance and Efficiency
Powered by Safran’s Arrius 2E 700 shp engines, the H140 delivers the best payload-to-range ratio in its class. Its dual-channel full-authority digital engine control (FADEC) system ensures exceptional performance in all engines operative (AEO) scenarios and provides significant power reserves in one engine inoperative (OEI) situations.
The H140 also incorporates the five-bladed rotor system first introduced on the H145 in 2019. This bearingless main rotor design simplifies maintenance, enhances reliability, and improves passenger and crew comfort. Operators will benefit from an optimized maintenance plan that aligns airframe and engine schedules, extending inspection intervals and reducing operating costs.
Advanced Avionics for Enhanced Safety
The H140 will be equipped with Airbus’ Helionix avionics system, already featured in the H135, H145, H160, and H175 models. Helionix includes a four-axis autopilot and an innovative cockpit layout designed to improve situational awareness, reduce pilot workload, and enhance mission safety.
Testing and Development Underway
Airbus is currently conducting flight tests for the H140 at its Donauwörth facility in Germany. The company plans to use four dedicated prototypes to refine the helicopter’s performance and capabilities ahead of its 2028 launch.
With its advanced design, superior performance, and customer-focused features, the H140 is poised to become a game-changer in the light twin-engined helicopter market.
