Airbus H145: Speed, Power, Comfort, and Reliability
Helicopters give man the ability to fly with the precision of a hummingbird, speeding forward, hovering, diving, navigating tight spaces, and landing in a very small footprint. Airbus has combined technology with comfort to design its model H145 to do all that, and more. To the credit of its compact airframe, the H145 presents a large cabin with unobstructed views and stunning, multi-use flexibility.
Several enhancements contribute to an improved model, once known as the EC145 T2. Already highly appreciated as the aircraft of choice for civil missions, acknowledged by over 1000 rotorcraft in service, logging more than four million flight hours. Add to that the optional interior package from Mercedes-Benz, tailored to luxury and business class standards, with ample luggage space, and the result is a rotary-wing aircraft setting the standard for all.
Specifications
This 4-ton class, twin engine rotor craft struts its stuff, turning in a stellar performance across the flight envelope. Equipped with a Helionix® avionics suite, 4-axis autopilot, Fenestron® anti-torque system, and upgraded tail and main gearboxes, this state of the art rotor craft offers unprecedented advantages.
The H145 delivers improved performance attributed in large part to the Arriel 2E engines, providing a range of 816 km/441 nm, and a fast cruise speed of 240 km per hour/130 knots, posting an endurance of 4 hours and 33 minutes. The 2E powerplants are assisted by dual FADEC (full authority digital engine controls), resulting in optimized operation in hover or one-engine inoperative status.
The small footprint of the H145 is surprising considering it is capable of carrying 1 pilot and 11 passengers, or similarly, 2 pilots and 10 passengers in high density mode, or 8 passengers in the standard configuration. Maximum takeoff weight of the 145 is 3,700 kg/857 lbs, and maximum cargo sling load is 1,600 kg/3,257 lbs, illustrating powerful capabilities.
