On the final day of EBACE 2023, Airbus Helicopters announced a blockbuster deal with Italian operator Air Corporate. Representing Airbus' largest commercial helicopter transaction in Italy, the Verona-based operator placed a firm order for 43 rotorcraft, including 40 single-engine H125/H130s which, depending on its decision at a later date, could be outfitted as VIP ACH125/ACH130s. As well, the deal includes three ACH160s in Line configuration with the Lounge interior package, to join the two ACH160s already on order.
According to Air Corporate, “We are experiencing a growing demand for the innovative ACH160 in the Italian market.” It noted the upscale configuration "guarantees elegance and at the same time excellent performance."
This latest deal builds on a previous 28-ship order from Airbus, of which 17 have been delivered, including the first of two ACH135s. The helicopters in this latest order will be delivered over the next several years, though a time frame was not disclosed.
Air Corporate—which operates a mixed fleet of Airbus and Leonardo helicopters—provides corporate flight operations for Italian industrial groups. It also operates a single Pilatus PC-24 light jet and provides last-mile connectivity between airports and final destinations using its helicopters.
Roano Grandi—president and accountable manager of Air Corporate, which was established in 1999—noted the company recently opened a base in Greece, and is looking at expansion into Spain, France, and the UK.