Airbus Helicopters has delivered the first H160 helicopter in China to GDAT Group, marking the start of the model’s operations in the country. The aircraft is part of a 50-unit order placed in April 2023, with five helicopters delivered so far.
According to Airbus, the H160 will be used mainly in the energy sector, including offshore transport for oil and gas platforms, wind farms, and harbour piloting. It will also be deployed for emergency medical services and other municipal public service missions.
Peter Jiang, Chairman of Chinese aviation company GDAT, said “we are proud to be the first to receive the brand new H160 helicopter in China” and that its introduction “continues GDAT’s long term commitment to providing state-of-the-art helicopter technology to both the Chinese market and those around the world” while underlining “our commitment to the safety, quality and efficiency of our operations.”
Colin James, Managing Director of Airbus Helicopters in China, stated that “the H160 sets a new standard for medium class helicopters worldwide” and that Airbus was “thrilled to welcome the first one into the Chinese market, providing our customer base with a cutting-edge solution in this sector.”
Founded in 2012, GDAT is a major general aviation services provider in China, active in helicopter sales and operating leases, flight operations, maintenance, repair and overhaul (MRO), training, and technical support.
The H160 is designed for a wide range of missions including law enforcement, offshore transportation, search and rescue, private and business aviation, and emergency medical services. It is currently in service in Brazil, Canada, France, Japan, Malaysia, the Philippines, Saudi Arabia, the United Kingdom, the United States, and several other European countries.
