Corporate

Airbus Helicopters' focus on continuous improvement comes to Helitech International

Marignane, France, 10 October, 2014

Airbus Helicopters’ commitment to the enhancement of its product line, the improvement of its services portfolio and the continuous increase of customer satisfaction will be highlighted during this month‘s Helitech International exposition and conference.

In addition to the presence of its evolved EC130 T2 and EC145 T2 rotorcraft at Amsterdam‘s RAI exhibit center (Stand #J60, Hall 8), Airbus Helicopters will emphasize the company’s solutions that enhance customer satisfaction, in particular by providing the highest level of Support & Services performance and quality.

“Becoming a part of the Airbus brand has grown our company stronger by holding us to the same levels of excellence that customers expect from a name like Airbus - synonymous with top-class quality, availability and customer satisfaction,” said Guillaume Faury, the President and CEO of Airbus Helicopters. “We are transforming ourselves to offer them a new standard and to better contribute to their own demanding missions and objectives.”

In its pledge to be a reliable partner throughout the lifetime of every rotorcraft delivered, Airbus Helicopters is pursuing a competitive and diversified service solutions portfolio tailored to customers’ needs. As part of this effort, the company has revamped its strategy for the management of spare parts. Changes include a significant increase in spare parts stocks, the optimization of forecasts, a closer integration of the supply chain, and a new worldwide stocking policy; along with the establishment of Secured Turn-around Times (TAT) and Standard Exchanges for Component Repair and Overhaul.

“Safety is Airbus Helicopter priority number one and we continue to raise the bar in the quality of our products and services offer,” Faury added.

Mr. Faury will be taking the stage alongside industry partners at the Business Leader’s Forum on day one of the show, discussing how OEMs and other players in the helicopter industry can support growth in the future as well as the challenges and opportunities of the rotorcraft supply chain.

On display at Helitech International, the EC145 T2 is an evolved version of Airbus Helicopters’ popular twin-engine EC145, incorporating Arriel 2E powerplants with double FADEC (full authority digital engine controls). It features upgraded main and tail rotor gear boxes, the innovative new Helionix digital avionics suite with 4-axis autopilot, as well as the most evident evolution to its design - the company’s Fenestron® shrouded tail rotor.

The Fenestron has a new-design tail gear box with lower maintenance costs, and incorporates a duplex tail rotor actuator and dual hydraulic circuits. It is installed in a new damage-tolerant, all-composite tail boom. In applying Fenestron technology to the EC145 T2, Airbus Helicopters brings this tail rotor’s benefits for improved flight and ground safety, enhanced anti-torque control efficiency, reduced power demand in forward flight and lower sound and vibration levels. Especially renowned for EMS and airborne law enforcement (ALE) missions, the EC145 T2 is the undisputed reference in its class.

The EC130 T2, which also is exhibited at Helitech International, has become a new reference in lightweight single-engine rotorcraft – with this latest member of Airbus Helicopters‘ EC130 family logging more than 120 orders since its unveiling in 2012.

Benefitting from improved operational performance, increased versatility and enhanced comfort, the EC130 T2 is fitted with a more powerful Arriel 2D turboshaft engine and upgraded main gearbox. In addition to the active vibration control system for a smoother ride, the helicopter’s redesigned cabin interior structure is equipped with a full flat floor. The EC130 T2 has become a staple in the helicopter tourism industry, thanks to its large windows, comfortable cabin and enjoyable flight experience.

About Airbus Helicopters
Airbus Helicopters, formerly Eurocopter, is a division of Airbus Group, a global pioneer in aerospace and defense related services. Airbus Helicopters is the world’s No. 1 helicopter manufacturer and employs more than 23,000 people worldwide. With 46 percent market share in civil and parapublic sectors, the company’s fleet in service includes some 12,000 helicopters operated by more than 3,000 customers in approximately 150 countries. Airbus Helicopters’ international presence is marked by its customer centers and participations in 21 countries, and its worldwide network of service centers, training facilities, distributors and certified agents. Airbus Helicopters’ range of civil and military helicopters is the world’s largest; its aircraft account for one third of the worldwide civil and parapublic fleet. The company’s chief priority is to ensure the safe operation of its aircraft for the thousands of people who fly more than 3 million hours per year.

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Airbus Helicopters delivers China’s first fully-equipped air ambulance

Its twin-engine EC135 will become the reference helicopter for Chinese airborne emergency medical services operations

Donauwörth, Germany, 9 October 2014 – A new era in Chinese air ambulance operations began today with Airbus Helicopters’ delivery of a twin-engine EC135 as the first rotorcraft outfitted for dedicated helicopter emergency medical services (HEMS) missions in the country.

During a ceremony at Airbus Helicopters’ Donauwörth, Germany engineering and production site where the aircraft was assembled, the milestone EC135 was provided to the 999 Emergency Rescue Center (999 Center), which is a Beijing Red Cross Foundation subsidiary.

“In addition to benefitting from the EC135’s excellence as an EMS helicopter, we also appreciate the added value of Airbus Helicopters’ experience and relationships with HEMS operators,” stated Mr. Ma Runhai, Executive Vice President of Beijing Red Cross Society of China. “It enables us to help achieve the national strategic goal of comprehensively deepening the reforms and propelling the modernization of the governance system and capacities. It will also help Beijing Red Cross Society of China to achieve the goal of becoming a leader in China and a first-class organization in the world.”

© Airbus Helicopters / Charles Abarr

The helicopter delivered today is the EC135 P2e version of Airbus Helicopters’ lightweight twin-engine rotorcraft family, and is fully equipped with medical systems from Bucher – the same provider for many established European HEMS operators.

“The EC135 is a benchmark for HEMS operators worldwide, as it has been designed with the expertise of doctors for medical transportation and services,” explained Wolfgang Schoder, CEO of Airbus Helicopters Germany. “It is the perfect platform to kick-start China’s efforts in ramping up its airborne emergency medical services.”

A delegation of doctors from the 999 Center currently is undergoing familiarization courses in Augsbourg on the Bucher-supplied equipment, which follows a one-week introduction to HEMS in the ADAC HEMS Academy near Cologne. In parallel, Airbus Helicopters is providing rotorcraft training, organizing a cooperation outreach, and establishing relationships and workshops for the Chinese with leading European air rescue operators to ensure a smooth and successful initiation of the country’s new HEMS operations.

“The relaxation of China’s low-altitude airspace augurs well for the development of HEMS which is very much needed in a country of such geographical and population size,” said Norbert Ducrot, President of Airbus Helicopters China. “999 Center’s initiative to launch this public service is highly commendable and will be well-appreciated by the people of China.”

In addition to the initial EC135 P2e received today by the 999 Center, a second helicopter will be delivered in the first quarter 2015, and a letter of intent for two EC145 T2 rotorcraft also has been signed by this public institution.

Airbus Helicopters is a leading rotorcraft provider, holding over 60 percent market share worldwide in the HEMS segment – with the EC135 being one of the sector’s reference helicopters alongside the company’s larger EC145. Approximately 25 percent of all medical emergency operations around the globe are performed with the EC135. A total of more than 1,100 EC135s have been delivered worldwide, and over 500 of these rotorcrafts are in HEMS configurations.

The EC135 has a wide, unobstructed cabin with excellent performance, range and payload capacity – and is recognized for its low-noise operations. The helicopter’s oversized sliding side doors and rear clamshell doors enable rapid loading/unloading of patients – with additional safety during ground operations ensured by its Fenestron® shrouded tail rotor.

About Airbus Helicopters
Airbus Helicopters, formerly Eurocopter, is a division of Airbus Group, a global pioneer in aerospace and defense related services. Airbus Helicopters is the world’s No. 1 helicopter manufacturer and employs more than 23,000 people worldwide. With 46 percent market share in civil and parapublic sectors, the company’s fleet in service includes some 12,000 helicopters operated by more than 3,000 customers in approximately 150 countries. Airbus Helicopters’ international presence is marked by its customer centers and participations in 21 countries, and its worldwide network of service centers, training facilities, distributors and certified agents. Airbus Helicopters’ range of civil and military helicopters is the world’s largest; its aircraft account for one third of the worldwide civil and parapublic fleet. The company’s chief priority is to ensure the safe operation of its aircraft for the thousands of people who fly more than 3 million hours per year.

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Royal Thai Police receives its first search & rescue configured Airbus Helicopters AS365 N3+

Bangkok, 24 September 2014

In a ceremony held yesterday at the Thai Police Aviation Division, the Royal Thai Police (RTP) received its first of two Airbus Helicopters AS365 N3+ that were ordered between 2012 and 2013.

Configured for search and rescue (SAR) missions, the AS365 N3+ is outfitted with equipment including electrical hoist, rappelling installation, cargo sling and search lights.

“This new acquisition is part of RTP’s modernization program to reinforce our capability to protect and serve the people. This helicopter will be particularly useful in rescue activities as well as in supporting our traditional police missions such as border protection, anti-smuggling and anti-terrorism,” said an RTP spokesperson.

© Airbus Helicopters Southeast Asia

The RTP’s Airbus Helicopters fleet currently comprises five EC155s from the Dauphin family, which have been in operation since 2009 as Royal transport aircraft. To boost their SAR capabilities, the RTP placed an order for two units of the AS365 N3+, another medium class helicopter from the Dauphin family, in 2012 and 2013 respectively. The first aircraft arrived in Bangkok yesterday, and the second unit is due to be delivered in mid-2015.

“The RTP’s acquisition of the AS365 N3+ demonstrates their confidence in our Dauphin helicopters, which have also served many other law enforcement agencies around the world," stated Derek Sharples, Managing Director of Airbus Helicopters Southeast Asia. “Besides benefiting from Airbus Helicopters’ Bangkok-based support centre, RTP will also receive high quality training in nearby Singapore where the AS365 N3+ full-flight simulator is located.”

Well adapted for operations in hot climates and high altitudes, the AS365 N3+ features a unique 4-axis autopilot to ease crew workload and help simplify the most demanding missions, including search and rescue. Its compact size and exceptional maneuverability allow police forces to operate in the most confined areas.

About Airbus Helicopters Southeast Asia
Airbus Helicopters Southeast Asia (AHSA) is the regional headquarters of Airbus Helicopters, the world’s leading helicopter manufacturer. Established in 1977 in Singapore, AHSA is the training and technical hub, and handles sales and customer support activities of 15 territories in total. In 2013, AHSA achieved a turnover of 112 million euros. With a staff-strength of more than 220 professionals, the company has developed a successful commercial network of Singapore-based sales team and regional sales managers and technical representatives, servicing and maintaining more than 300 helicopters in the region. Website: www.airbushelicopters.com.sg.

About Airbus Helicopters
Airbus Helicopters, formerly Eurocopter, is a division of Airbus Group, a global pioneer in aerospace and defense related services. Airbus Helicopters is the world’s No. 1 helicopter manufacturer and employs more than 23,000 people worldwide. With 46 percent market share in civil and parapublic sectors, the company’s fleet in service includes some 12,000 helicopters operated by more than 3,000 customers in approximately 150 countries. Airbus Helicopters’ international presence is marked by its customer centers and participations in 21 countries, and its worldwide network of service centers, training facilities, distributors and certified agents. Airbus Helicopters’ range of civil and military helicopters is the world’s largest; its aircraft account for one third of the worldwide civil and parapublic fleet. The company’s chief priority is to ensure the safe operation of its aircraft for the thousands of people who fly more than 3 million hours per year.

For more information please contact:

Airbus Helicopters and GFC Construction Begin Work on the Marignane Development Center

Marignane, September 12, 2014

Airbus Helicopters and GFC Construction, the subsidiary of Bouygues Construction in southeastern France, today began work on the Marignane Development Center at the helicopter manufacturer’s main site in Marignane, Bouches du Rhône.

The result of a 30-million-euro investment, the building will accommodate more than 1,000 employees from Airbus Helicopters’ R&D community.

Comprising a floor area of nearly 20,000 m²―some 18,000 m² of office space and 2,000 m² for workshops―the facilities have been designed to promote synergies and cross-functionality among all the stakeholders involved in the company’s processes of industrial development and technical innovation.

The architecture of the building is a prime concern, with the architect Michel Rémon assisting with the project from the design phase. Priority will be given to employee comfort in the design of the work spaces. The building will make maximum use of natural daylight and materials have been carefully chosen with a view to ensuring acoustic comfort. The façade will be built by Acieroid, another subsidiary of Bouygues Construction, and will consist of “breathable” triple glazing to ensure optimal thermal comfort.

The building, which will receive a BREEAM^© rating of Very Good, will be designed and built in accordance with the principles of sustainable construction.

Running for 17 months, work is due for completion in January 2016 and will involve around 100 people during peak periods.

About Airbus Helicopters

Airbus Helicopters, formerly Eurocopter, is a division of Airbus Group, a global pioneer in aerospace and defense related services. Airbus Helicopters is the world’s No. 1 helicopter manufacturer and employs more than 23,000 people worldwide. With 46 percent market share in civil and parapublic sectors, the company’s fleet in service includes some 12,000 helicopters operated by more than 3,000 customers in approximately 150 countries. Airbus Helicopters’ international presence is marked by its customer centers and participations in 21 countries, and its worldwide network of service centers, training facilities, distributors and certified agents. Airbus Helicopters’ range of civil and military helicopters is the world’s largest; its aircraft account for one third of the worldwide civil and parapublic fleet. The company’s chief priority is to ensure the safe operation of its aircraft for the thousands of people who fly more than 3 million hours per year.

About GFC Construction

GFC Construction is a subsidiary of Bouygues Construction and operates in the southeastern quarter of France. It carries out development, design, construction and renovation activities in the areas of housing, public service and tertiary infrastructure, multi-product operations, energy and the environment, industry and logistics. GFC Construction has a property development subsidiary named CIRMAD. The company operates on the Côte d’Azur under the Miraglia brand and is present in Monaco through its subsidiary Richelmi, which has been doing business in the principality for the best part of 70 years. In conjunction with Bouygues Construction’s other subsidiaries, GFC Construction brings its customers wide-ranging expertise that encompasses everything from project development and design through to operations and maintenance. GFC Construction employs 1,100 people and generated a turnover of 400 million euros in 2013. GFC Construction is a high-profile stakeholder in the local community and entrusts the provision of over 70 percent of its services to local partners.

Contacts presse

Airbus Helicopters
Gloria Illas
04 42 85 58 89
gloria.illas@airbus.com

GFC Construction
Hubert Engelmann
04 72 81 18 83
h.engelmann@gfc-construction.fr

Airbus Helicopters shows combat-proven capabilities of its rotorcraft for Poland and expands the company’s in-country cooperation

Kielce, Poland, 3 September, 2014 – Airbus Helicopters’ high-profile presence at MSPO Expo this week is focused on demonstrating the capabilities of the company’s Tiger HAD attack helicopter and multi-mission EC725 Caracal that perfectly respond to the Polish military’s operational requirements.

“The EC725 and Tiger HAD are modern, and battle-proven, having shown their full capabilities in real combat situations,” said Airbus Helicopters President Guillaume Faury during a press briefing at MSPO Expo. “In addition to offering these high-performance rotorcraft to Poland, Airbus Helicopters stands alone in proposing a comprehensive and integrated solution for the country’s needs from a single aircraft manufacturer, thereby providing a unique logistics system, and an unequaled industrial arrangement with Poland’s aviation sector.”

© Airbus Helicopters, Paul Szczeciński

At the MSPO Expo in Kielce, the French Army Aviation provided its feedback from operations with Tiger HAD and EC725 Caracal in tandem, emphasizing their interoperability. “The two aircraft were efficient and complementary in Afghanistan and Mali. They are perfectly adapted to the modern and asymmetric wars we face today,” explained General Olivier de la Motte, Head of French Army Aviation.

For Poland’s procurement of new multi-role helicopters, Airbus Helicopters’ EC725 Caracal performs the widest range of missions – from special operations to combat search and rescue, tactical transport and medical evacuation.

The Tiger HAD meets Poland’s mission requirements for its acquisition of attack helicopters, with Airbus Helicopters’ family of twin-engine Tiger rotorcraft already in the military inventories of such NATO countries as France, Germany and Spain, along with Australia. In addition to operations in Afghanistan the attack helicopter has seen service in Libya and Mali operations.

Airbus Helicopters’ presence at MSPO Expo this week also underscores the company’s proven strategy of supporting its helicopters and working with local industry in customer countries, which includes creating full assembly lines, establishing service centers, contracting the manufacture of aviation parts, and collaborating on comprehensive research and development programs.

As part of Airbus Helicopters cooperation strategy in Poland, the company signed a cooperation accord at MSPO Expo with the Pomeranian Special Economic Zone in Gdańsk, broadening the scope of collaboration with the Gdańsk University of Technology (GUT). This latest step to enhance collaborative research activities with the university will facilitate the industrialization of theoretical studies performed by Airbus Helicopters and GUT, which primarily deal with diagnostic activities in the sector of Health and Usage Monitoring Systems (HUMS) for helicopters. With this collaboration, Airbus Helicopters is looking for breakthrough technologies that can be quickly developed and industrialized to supply extra value to customers.

Poland is a key strategic market for Airbus Helicopters. The company has been present in the country for 10 years through Heli Invest, its local distributor and partner. 54 Airbus Helicopters rotorcraft are currently operating in Poland. This includes a large fleet of EC135s for Poland’s LPR (Lotnicze Pogotowie Ratunkowe), acquired in a modernization of the nationwide emergency medical services network – making it one of the most modern in Europe. LPR’s EC135s have provided exemplary service in lifesaving missions, setting the standard for a governmental operator transitioning from a Soviet-era rotorcraft type to a modern Western rotorcraft.

About Airbus Helicopters
Airbus Helicopters, formerly Eurocopter, is a division of Airbus Group, a global pioneer in aerospace and defense related services. Airbus Helicopters is the world’s No. 1 helicopter manufacturer and employs more than 23,000 people worldwide. With 46 percent market share in civil and parapublic sectors, the company’s fleet in service includes some 12,000 helicopters operated by more than 3,000 customers in approximately 150 countries. Airbus Helicopters’ international presence is marked by its subsidiaries and participations in 21 countries, and its worldwide network of service centers, training facilities, distributors and certified agents. Airbus Helicopters’ range of civil and military helicopters is the world’s largest; its aircraft account for one third of the worldwide civil and parapublic fleet. The company’s chief priority is to ensure the safe operation of its aircraft for the thousands of people who fly more than 3 million hours per year.

For more information please contact:

Airbus Helicopters and Romania sign memorandum of understanding to build on four decades of successes

BUCHAREST, Romania, 3 September 2014 - The Government of Romania and Airbus Helicopters have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) in a ceremony at the Victoria Palace in Victory Square, the headquarters of the Romanian Government.

Present for the signing were Romanian Prime Minister Victor Viorel Ponta; Vice Prime Minister, Minister of Internal Affairs Gabriel Oprea; Minister of National Defence Mircea Dusa; Minister of Economy Constantin Nita; Minister of Finance Maria Petrescu; Airbus Helicopters President Guillaume Faury; and Jean-Louis Mascle, General Executive Director of Eurocopter Romania.

The ceremony underscored the commitment by the Government of Romania and Airbus Helicopters to build on their shared history of success and to confirm the company’s presence in the country for future decades. Today’s memorandum paves the way for Airbus Helicopters to extend here in Romania, our activities and further develop our production capabilities for the Super Puma MK1 helicopter at Brasov Aerospace Technological Park. “The trust placed by Romania in Airbus Helicopters is more than reciprocated, and I hope that the investments we have made, and will continue to make, in Romania do demonstrate this to you today”, said Airbus Helicopters President, Guillaume Faury”.

© Paul Cordwell - 2013

With over 300 Pumas and Alouettes helicopters (IAR330 and IAR316) produced under licence in the 1970s for national and export markets, Airbus Helicopters has enjoyed a longstanding partnership with the Government of Romania. The helicopter manufacturer’s presence in Brasov dates to 2002 through Eurocopter Romania, a joint-venture with the state-owned company Industria Aeronautică Română (now IAR S.A. Brasov).

Over 170 highly skilled employees perform major inspections and repairs of Pumas and Super Pumas, as well as work on maintenance export contracts. In 2012, the United Kingdom’s Ministry of Defence took possession of its first upgraded Puma Mk1 as part of the Puma Life Extension Programme (LEP) contract awarded to Eurocopter UK in 2009 which upgrades Mk1 helicopters to Mk2. The three-year support contract affects a fleet of 24 Royal Air Force Puma Mk1 helicopters being upgraded at Brasov to extend their life, and enhance performance, mission capability and operational safety. In addition, Airbus Helicopters aircraft perform missions for several Romanian State institutions, including the Ministry of Health, the Ministry of Interior, and the Intelligence Service Agency (SRI).

Eurocopter Romania’s strides in developing cost-effective solutions to maintain and retrofit the workhorse Puma helicopter have been driven by the excellence of its workforce, and have earned global recognition for the Romanian facility, with achievements that have made the Brasov customer center a reference and success story in the production and overhaul of Pumas. With today’s memorandum, Airbus Helicopters hopes to benefit from this industrial capacity in its evaluation of development options for its family of twin-engine medium helicopters.

About Airbus Helicopters
Airbus Helicopters, formerly Eurocopter, is a division of Airbus Group, a global pioneer in aerospace and defense related services. Airbus Helicopters is the world’s No. 1 helicopter manufacturer and employs more than 23,000 people worldwide. With 46 percent market share in civil and parapublic sectors, the company’s fleet in service includes some 12,000 helicopters operated by more than 3,000 customers in approximately 150 countries. Airbus Helicopters’ international presence is marked by its subsidiaries and participations in 21 countries, and its worldwide network of service centers, training facilities, distributors and certified agents. Airbus Helicopters’ range of civil and military helicopters is the world’s largest; its aircraft account for one third of the worldwide civil and parapublic fleet. The company’s chief priority is to ensure the safe operation of its aircraft for the thousands of people who fly more than 3 million hours per year.

For more information please contact:

Airbus Group open for business at MSPO

• Major presence at Poland’s prestigious defence show
• Products on display tailored to Poland’s requirements, including two frontline battlefield helicopters: the combat-proven EC725 Caracal and the Tiger HAD attack helicopter

Kielce, 29 August 2014 – Airbus Group and its Divisions will showcase its portfolio of advanced helicopter, defence and security products at the 22nd MSPO International Defence Industry Exhibition, from 1 to 4 September in Kielce, Poland.

The Group will have a major presence incorporating a static display for real helicopters, a hospitality area, meeting rooms and a large stand to display equipment and welcome government delegations. The Airbus Group stand area will feature a number of important mock-ups including the new locally developed PZL 130 Orlik multi-purpose trainer aircraft, the A330 MRTT (Multi Role Tanker Transport) refuelling aircraft and the maritime patrol variant of the C295 multi-mission transport aircraft.

“Our presence at MSPO demonstrates the importance we attach to Poland and its defence and security modernisation programme. We believe Poland is more than a market to trade with; this is a nation taking its place at the heart of Europe with strategic ambitions to match. Airbus Group wants to be Poland’s industrial partner of choice, and building on our existing strong roots, we are offering advanced technology and long-term collaboration for mutual benefit,” said Marwan Lahoud, Airbus Group Chief Strategy and Marketing Officer.

Airbus Helicopters will showcase the modern and combat-proven EC725 Caracal and EC665 Tiger HAD in Poland

Marking its premier appearance in Poland, the EC665 Tiger HAD attack helicopter will join the multi-mission EC725 Caracal on display at MSPO. With a proven combat mission record, including side-by-side deployments with the French Army in Afghanistan, Libya and Mali under extreme and challenging conditions, the two aircraft have already demonstrated their unique performance, reliability and interoperability.

“With two modern, combat proven and interoperable rotorcraft, Airbus Helicopters is able to offer a comprehensive solution to meet the full needs of the Polish Armed Forces,” said Airbus Helicopters President Guillaume Faury. “We are ready to ramp-up our existing cooperation with Poland’s aerospace industry and research institutions in order to provide a consistent, sustainable and structured end-to-end industrial capacity.”

Airbus Helicopters’ NATO-interoperable EC725 Caracal is proposed for Poland’s acquisition of new multi-role helicopters, with the rotorcraft able to perform a wide range of missions.  These missions range from special operations to combat search and rescue, tactical transport and medical evacuation as well as a full range of maritime roles.  One type of helicopter thus enables Poland to autonomously defend its territory and deploy its forces wherever and whenever needed. Since its entry into operational service in 2005, the EC725 Caracal has been operational with the military forces of France, Brazil, Mexico, Malaysia, Indonesia, Thailand, and in the near future several other undisclosed nations.  Its reliability and durability have been endorsed in crisis areas that include Lebanon, Afghanistan and Mali, while also supporting France’s role during NATO-led operations in Libya.

Visit Airbus Group at MSPO at the Airbus Group Stand in Hall F - Booth F-17.
The Airbus Helicopters static display is located in row ZF-7.

Highlights of the Show include:

Monday 1 September

Airbus Helicopters will host a press briefing on its future plans for growth in Poland
(Time: 13:30, Room: ALFA 1)

Tuesday 2 September

Airbus Helicopters will partake in the “Day of the Armed Forces”, including technical briefings and a Helicopters Return on Experience seminar presented by the French Army
(Time: 12:00, Room: KAPPA)

About Airbus Group

Airbus Group is a global leader in aeronautics, space and related services. In 2013, the Group – comprising Airbus, Airbus Defence and Space and Airbus Helicopters – generated revenues of € 57.6 billion and employed a workforce of around 139,000.

Airbus Group in Poland

Airbus Group has been partnered with the Polish aerospace industry for nearly  two decades. As of today, more than ten Polish companies are involved in the direct Airbus supply chain, in addition to multiple indirect suppliers. Sourcing from Poland amounts to € 174 million, including aerostructures, systems and services. The Group employs a local workforce of 850 highly-skilled employees.

With 54 rotorcraft in operation in Poland, Airbus Helicopters is currently leading the market among western rotorcraft manufacturers, in addition to providing comprehensive maintenance repair and overhaul (MRO) services to the country’s fleet. Following the delivery of 23 EC135s to the Polish HEMS (Helicopter Emergency Medical Services) unit Lotnicze Pogotowie Ratunkowe, the fleet has logged 31,180 flight hours and contributed to saving 27,000 lives).  Airbus Helicopters is also the only company to have successfully performed an important training transition programme from Soviet-era helicopters to a modern fleet.

PZL Warszawa Okęcie – a subsidiary of Airbus Defence and Space – manufactures the multi-purpose trainer aircraft PZL 130 “Orlik”. Its activities further encompass manufacturing of aerostructures for the CASA C295 and C235 aircraft, as well as maintenance services and a design office.

Today, 49 aircraft from the Airbus Defence and Space portfolio are in operation in the country, performing a variety of tasks such as airborne surveillance, firefighting and humanitarian assistance. Services range from pilot and flight crew training to aircraft MRO.

Airbus Group’s partnership with Poland is also shaped by a strong commitment to local research and technology efforts. The Group has worked with Polish researchers on more than 50 very successful cutting-edge research projects in the fields of materials, aerodynamics, systems and novel aircraft configurations. In 2014 Airbus Group actively supported the European Union’s CleanSky2 project public information day in Warsaw and strongly encouraged Polish companies and universities to participate in this multi-billion euro project.

Through a joint venture with the Space Research Centre at the Polish Academy of Sciences, Airbus Defence and Space carries out research and development work in the satellite and space technologies segment.

Building on its existing roots, the Airbus Group is now preparing a large scale research and technology programme for Poland with the aim of strengthening the links between Polish industry, Polish academic institutions and the Airbus Group’s main Western European research partners. The intention is to launch this new programme at the beginning of 2015.

For more information on Airbus Group in Poland visit our website at
http://www.airbusgroup.com/int/en/group-vision/global-presence/poland.html

About Airbus Helicopters

Airbus Helicopters, formerly Eurocopter, is a division of Airbus Group, a global pioneer in aerospace and defense related services. Airbus Helicopters is the world’s No. 1 helicopter manufacturer and employs more than 23,000 people worldwide.

With 46 percent market share in civil and parapublic sectors, the company’s fleet in service includes some 12,000 helicopters operated by more than 3,000 customers in approximately 150 countries. Airbus Helicopters’ international presence is marked by its subsidiaries and participations in 21 countries, and its worldwide network of service centers, training facilities, distributors and certified agents.

Airbus Helicopters’ range of civil and military helicopters is the world’s largest; its aircraft account for one third of the worldwide civil and parapublic fleet. The company’s chief priority is to ensure the safe operation of its aircraft for the thousands of people who fly more than 3 million hours per year.

Contacts: