China’s State Grid General Aviation Company (SGGAC) has accepted the first Airbus H215 delivered in China. SGGAC performs aerial construction and maintenance work along China’s network of high and very high voltage power lines. The addition of the Airbus heavy twin will enable SGGAC to perform new missions such as cable repair, cable laying, cargo transportation, and power line pylon constructions in difficult-to-reach areas.
The helicopter comes equipped with a 4.5-ton cargo sling, hoists, weather radar, and a wire-strike protection system. It is configured to seat 17 and is equipped with oxygen jackets for high-altitude missions. The H215’s standard features include Makila 1A1 engines and glass cockpit avionics with a four-axis autopilot.
The H215 will join the company’s existing fleet of 15 Airbus helicopters, which comprises H125, H120, and H225 models. Introduction of this H215 increases China’s Super Puma family fleet to nearly 40 aircraft that perform missions from oil and gas to aerial work to VIP transportation. Its fleet is supported by Airbus Helicopters’ approved helicopter MRO center in Shenzhen, and an H225 full-flight simulator is located in Beijing.