Airbus Helicopters’ multi-role H130 rotorcraft will soon accomplish additional duties as the first aerial work-configured member of this lightweight single-engine rotorcraft family has been delivered to Air Zermatt.

Equipped with a new cargo sling, the H130 version will demonstrate its versatility by performing a full range of aerial work assignments, while also supporting the Swiss operator’s other missions – including passenger transport and emergency medical airlift services.

“We look forward to the service introduction of our H130, which brings a modern, high-performance helicopter to our fleet that also meets the latest safety standards,” explained Air Zermatt CEO Gerold Biner.

The H130’s new cargo sling system has a hook capacity of 1,500 kg. When its load is released, the hook automatically transitions to a forward position, which allows maintaining the necessary fuel tank crashworthiness.

“Air Zermatt is a worldwide reference for aerial work operations, and we are proud it has selected the H130 to further develop this activity,” said Thomas Hein, Airbus Helicopters’ Vice President – Head of Western Europe.

Other Airbus Helicopter-built rotorcraft types currently operated by Air Zermatt are five AS350 B3s from the Ecureuil/AStar family and two SA315 Lamas.

The H130 is an enhanced version of Airbus Helicopters’ EC130 B4 rotorcraft providing exceptional capabilities for aerial work and heavy-lift operations in a full range of operating conditions – especially high-altitude, mountainous terrain. It is also tailored for passenger transportation, sightseeing and VIP duties, as well as medical airlift, law enforcement and surveillance missions.

Featuring an upgraded gearbox and a new Turbomeca Arriel 2D engine, the H130 provides 10 percent more average power than the previous EC130 B4 version. Performance improvements for the H130 include a higher maximum gross takeoff weight (2,500 kg. for internal loads, and 3,050 kg. when carrying external loads) and a speed increase of up to 10 knots.

The H130 has a spacious cabin for one pilot and up to seven passengers, depending on the configuration.

About Airbus Helicopters

Airbus Helicopters is a division of Airbus Group. The company provides the most efficient civil and military helicopter solutions to its customers who serve, protect, save lives and safely carry passengers in highly demanding environments. Flying more than 3 million flight hours per year, the company’s in-service fleet includes some 12,000 helicopters operated by more than 3,000 customers in 152 countries. Airbus Helicopters employs more than 23,000 people worldwide and in 2014 generated revenues of 6.5 billion Euros. In line with the company’s new identity, fully integrated into Airbus Group, Airbus Helicopters has renamed its product range replacing the former “EC” designation with an “H”.