Hong Kong-based Government Flying Services (GFS) has ordered seven Airbus Helicopters H175s, becoming the world’s launching customer for this new-generation super-medium-sized rotorcraft in the public services configuration.

GFS is a department of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region, with the main responsibility of providing 24-hour emergency support services. It is an established operator of Airbus Helicopters rotorcraft, currently flying three AS332s and four H155s for search and rescue (SAR) and firefighting missions.

“The H175 ticks all the right boxes for our mission requirements,” said Captain Michael Chan, Controller of GFS. “We are confident that the addition of the H175s to our fleet will enhance our capabilities to serve the local community inshore and out at sea.”

The public services configuration offers multi-role capabilities, enabling speedy and seamless transformation based on mission requirements. The wide range of missions that can be performed include SAR operations, emergency medical services, fire fighting, law enforcement and land/maritime border security patrols. Deliveries will begin towards end 2017 with the first batch of three aircraft, followed by the remaining four in 2018.

“I want to extend my sincere thanks to GFS for selecting our new-generation rotorcraft” said Airbus Helicopters President & CEO Guillaume Faury. “After the successful entry into service of the H175 in oil and gas configuration, the launch of the H175 public services version is another important milestone in this program. The enlarged mission scope will not only be good news for public services providers, but also for oil & gas operators, as they will benefit from having the ability to equip themselves for a quick role change for SAR operations.

“This acquisition is an outstanding recognition of the H175, as GFS is a world reference for SAR operations in highly demanding missions that require long range and good performance in all-weather conditions,” said Norbert Ducrot, Airbus Helicopters’ Head of North Asia region. “We sincerely thank them for placing their trust in our products and we will continue to put in our utmost efforts in ensuring efficient and close support for their fleet.”

GFS’ H175s will have an inbuilt electro-optical system for observation and tracking, along with an enhanced digital map display, both managed from an operator’s console in the cabin. Other mission equipment include dual hoists, loud-speaker hailers, a searchlight, and steerable external lighting. The H175’s highly capable autopilot will incorporate additional advanced modes to further decrease pilot workload during SAR operations.