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One of the first ACH160 units, still in the Experimental livery. Flight tests leading to certification of the new lownoise “Blue-Edge”main rotor took three years to complete. Right, the VIP configuration interiors
INNOVATION AT THE SERVICE OF COMFORT by Sergio Barlocchetti - ph. courtesy by Airbus
The ACH160 is the Corporate/VIP version of the latest Airbus helicopter. It features an array of innovations from materials to electronics and especially aerodynamics, with the introduction of the Blue Edge rotor, the quietest in the world
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[ HELICOPTER ]
T
he Air Corporate company is the Italian client for the semi-
means that the air conditioning can only be engaged after passengers
VIP version of the Airbus ACH160 helicopter, a twin-engine
have boarded when at least one of the twin 1,100 hp Turbomeca
aircraft costing 14 million euro, presented in Milan last
Arrano engines is spooled up, which means the rotors will also turn.
autumn. The letters AC in the H160’s official name denote the
Apart from this the CH160 is clearly a development of the H160, one
opportunities for personalisation with six types of layout for up ten
of the most advanced helicopters in the world designed to operate
passengers. As well as the Italian company, eight more clients based
anywhere with no limitations and to require minimal maintenance
in Europe, China, Thailand and North and South America have
thanks to extensively digitalised processes, a significant contribution
finalised orders for this model, whose innovative features involved
to efficiency in service. The structure is made entirely of composite
the registration by Airbus of sixty-eight new patents. The most
materials, reducing undercarriage weight, and the hydraulic brakes
important of these is undoubtedly the shape of the Blue Edge rotor
are electrically operated. The weight savings mean that the aircraft
tip, which reduces internal and external noise. With a maximum
consumes around 15% less fuel than its competitors. The list of
take-off weight of just over six tonnes and a cruising speed of 175
aerodynamic innovations includes a biplane stabiliser for enhanced
Kts for a 475-mile maximum range, on the Italian market the Franco-
stability at low speeds and a quieter tilted Fenestron tail rotor. The
German helicopter is positioned between the Italian-built AW 169
pilots are provided with latest-generation integrated avionics and
and AW139, but with some simplifications like the omission of the
the passenger cabin, even when configured for ten passengers, offers
Auxiliary Power Unit (APU) and systems enabling the rotors to
significantly higher comfort levels than previous Airbus models like
remain stationary while the engine is turning. Operationally this
the BK117 and EC145. www.airbus.com 149