Airbus Helicopters, SKYCO Leasing sign deal for six H175 helicopters to boost Guangdong’s public services

Airbus Helicopters and SKYCO International Financial Leasing Co., Ltd., a prominent state-owned enterprise under the auspices of China‘s Guangdong Province, have recently sealed a deal for six H175 helicopters. This acquisition marks a significant step forward in enhancing public service missions across Guangdong, including search and rescue, emergency medical services, and disaster relief efforts, underlining the provincial government’s commitment to public welfare and safety.

The contract not only encompasses the procurement of helicopters but also signals a deeper collaboration between Airbus Helicopters and the Guangdong Provincial Government, aiming to spearhead the helicopter market’s growth in southern China. Bruno Even, CEO of Airbus Helicopters, expressed pride in this partnership, viewing it as a testament to Guangdong Province’s ambition to lead in the aviation sector.

Beyond the helicopter purchase, the agreement entails an expansion of Airbus Helicopters’ presence in Guangdong Province and the Greater Bay Area. This collaboration with SKYCO Leasing is set to include the joint development of support and service activities and an industrial cooperation setup. The initiative aims to establish a solid foundation for general aviation development, promoting the reform to open low-altitude airspace, and exploring business models tailored to the Chinese aviation market. This partnership is anticipated to not only bolster regional economic growth but also enhance the efficiency and scope of public service missions in the region.

Airbus Helicopters, SKYCO Leasing sign deal for six H175 helicopters to boost Guangdong’s public services. Photo courtesy of AIRBUS.

The H175 helicopter, in service since 2015, is recognized for its exceptional range, payload capacity, and smooth flight qualities, making it an ideal choice for a broad spectrum of mission profiles, including disaster relief and search & rescue operations. With 55 units currently in service, accumulating over 210,000 flight hours, the H175 has proven its reliability and effectiveness, particularly in the energy sector where it has logged 184,000 flight hours.

This strategic partnership between Airbus Helicopters and SKYCO Leasing not only underscores the commitment to enhancing public services in Guangdong Province but also paves the way for significant advancements in the regional aviation industry. The integration of Airbus’ state-of-the-art H175 helicopters into Guangdong’s public service operations is poised to significantly improve the province’s disaster response capabilities and overall public welfare.