Colombia picks AW139 as presidential transport helicopter
Colombia has selected the Leonardo AW139 intermediate-twin as its new presidential transport helicopter.
Longer-range Ansat helicopter makes maiden flight
Russian Helicopters has flown the first example of the upgraded Kazan Ansat-M light-twin helicopter, which boasts enhanced range and flight performance.
The global helicopter market in numbers
A breakdown of the global in-service fleets across the civil and military helicopter markets, together with historic fleet and delivery trends.
EASA approves weight increase for H135 as Airbus Helicopters seals new orders
Airbus Helicopters has secured European certification for a new alternate gross weight (AGW) on the H135 light-twin, which increases maximum take-off weight to 3,100kg.
Bell advances electric tail rotor concept, but stays cautious on production timeline
Bell is confident that its EDAT electric tail rotor system will eventually make its way into production, although the manufacturer cautions that this may not happen for another five to 10 years.
Assembly of first Mi-171A3 prototype gets under way
Russian Helicopters has begun assembly of the first Mil Mi-171A3 prototype ahead of a maiden sortie in 2022.
Patents signal Bell’s interest in biplane tiltrotor and variable-direction tail rotor designs
A slew of patent awards for Bell over recent months – including a biplane tiltrotor, a pusher propeller drivetrain and an anti-torque tail rotor that can be turned through 90° – highlight the range of innovations potentially being considered by the helicopter manufacturer.
New arrivals in medium helicopter sector threaten the old order
Heading up the weight range means these medium-class helicopters are more capable but more complex – and come with a bigger price ticket. Despite this, there are big sellers in this category, alongside new entrants.
New models set to bring fresh competition to light-single helicopter segment
Arguably the most competitive part of the helicopter market, the light-single segment is, however, not necessarily blessed with the most modern designs. Nonetheless, new models are in development which will bring innovation to the sector.
How the different helicopter markets are shaping up
FlightGlobal takes a look at the latest product developments across the various segments of the helicopter market.