Airbus Helicopters believes it is well-positioned to capitalize on the recent offshore energy boom, according to Régis Magnac, the company’s head of energy, leasing, and global accounts. Magnac pointed to the best offshore helicopter practices articulated in the International Association of Oil and Gas Producers Report 690 (R690) as a catalyst for operators to modernize and expand their fleets with newer aircraft such as the super-medium twin Airbus Helicopters H175 and the intermediate H160.
“This is exactly what is happening in the North Sea and now expanding in other areas such as Australia and Brazil,” he said, noting that Airbus is ramping up production of both models to reduce delivery times. However, robust demand for offshore lift means continuing “tension on helicopter supply as there is no overcapacity on the market.”
While Airbus is emphasizing the H175 and H160 for offshore missions, Magnac said Airbus would continue production of its H225 Super Puma heavy twin “into the 2040s.” He added that the model still has a role to play in the deep water market, especially in light of recent improvements developed for the helicopter. They include an enhanced main gearbox, a 353-pound increased payload, cockpit and tailboom cameras, large multi-function displays, and a simplified maintenance plan.
According to Magnac, half of all Airbus helicopters flying offshore energy missions are enrolled in the company’s HCare maintenance contract program.
Aside from oil and gas, Airbus remains optimistic about the growth potential for offshore wind, despite a few recent hiccups in the sector. “The offshore wind farm industry is growing; however, 2023 was difficult for some developers and turbine makers due to factors, including inflation, supply chain issues, and a lack of stability on turbine standards.”
Magnac sees increasing potential for Airbus’ smaller H135 and H145 twins to support the sector going forward. He said the company already has demonstrated the ability for both models to transfer technicians to floating wind turbines.
For all of offshore, Magnac sees a future for its pilot-assist avionics on crewed aircraft and emerging uncrewed and autonomous aircraft to play key logistical roles. “The H225 autopilot is already equipped with Rig 'N Fly, an avionics enhancement designed to provide automatic rig approaches for offshore operations,” he noted.
“We are currently working on extending some Helionix features implemented on the H160, such as the assisted takeoff and landing, pre-alerting system for vortex [ring state], and recovery mode to other helicopters,” Magnac added. He also envisions a role for Airbus’ uncrewed VSR700 to support offshore cargo delivery. “Our VSR700, thanks to its versatility and good performance, is a perfect candidate to address this kind of mission,” Magnac concluded.