Aviation360 MEA

Airbus Helicopters made a major announcement with Italian operator Air Corporate on the last day of EBACE 2023. The Verona-based operator placed a solid order for 43 rotorcraft, comprising 40 single-engine H125/H130s that, depending on its decision later on, might be configured as VIP ACH125/ACH130s. This represents Airbus’ largest commercial helicopter transaction in Italy. Along with the two ACH160s originally ordered, the agreement also includes three additional ACH160s in Line configuration with the Lounge interior option.

Air Corporate claims that “We are experiencing a growing demand for the innovative ACH160 in the Italian market.” The sophisticated setup, it was remarked, “guarantees elegance and at the same time excellent performance.”

Previously, Airbus had ordered 28 ships, of which 17 had been delivered, including the first of two ACH135s. This most recent agreement adds to that order. Although a timeline was not provided, the most recent order will see the delivery of the helicopters over the course of several years.

Italian industrial groups can use the corporate flying services provided by Air Corporate, which runs a mixed fleet of Airbus and Leonardo helicopters. Additionally, it runs a single Pilatus PC-24 light plane and uses its helicopters to provide last-mile connectivity between airports and ultimate destinations.

The company just constructed a facility in Greece, and according to Roano Grandi, president and accountable manager of Air Corporate, which was founded in 1999, it is hoping to expand into Spain, France, and the UK.