Turbine Helicopter Delivery Forecasts Differ

Predictions for the number of civil helicopter deliveries over the next decade differ widely, according to forecasts released at the Helicopter Association International’s Heli-Expo in Dallas by engine manufacturers Honeywell and Rolls-Royce. According to Rolls-Royce, 5,191 civil turbine rotorcraft will be delivered during the 10-year period from 2006 through 2015, equating to an annual average of about 520 units. Honeywell is more optimistic, predicting average annual deliveries close to 545 civil turbine rotorcraft in the 11-year period from 2006 through 2016. Both studies indicate that more than 500 helicopters were delivered last year, a significant increase over an industry low of about 400 in 2002.