Airbus touts helicopters for PH military
European jet maker Airbus wants to expand its helicopter business in the Philippines by providing units to the government’s military force for search and rescue operations.
Jussi Hoikka, Airbus chief representative for the Philippines, said in a press briefing in Pasay City on Tuesday they were offering the H225M helicopter, a multi-role vehicle that can be used also for tactical transport, medical evacuation and special operations.
“With its heavy lift capability and adaptability, the H225M is perfectly suited for transporting personnel and equipment in the toughest of conditions,” he said.
“We are dedicated to be here in the long run. We really want to expand by also supplying our helicopters to the Armed Forces of the Philippines,” he added.
According to the firm’s website, Airbus has close to 90 helicopters in service in the Philippines. These include the light single-engine models such as the H125 and H130 and others like H135, H155 and ACH160.
The Airbus helicopters are being used for law enforcement, commercial charters and VVIP (very very important person) transport, among others.
Airbus currently has a maintenance, repair and overhaul facility for these helicopters at Ninoy Aquino International Airport (Naia) complex.
Hoikka said they would expand their Naia hub “if the market demands it.”
Another model Airbus is offering to the government is the A330 Multi-Role Tanker Transport, which can carry up to 111 tons of fuel, the highest capacity of any tanker aircraft in production today.
