HTM Helicopters has recently augmented its fleet with a new order for an Airbus H145 helicopter, alongside options to acquire two more of the same model. This expansion is strategically aimed at bolstering their capabilities in offshore wind operations across the coasts of Germany and France.
Bernd Brucherseifer, Managing Director of HTM Helicopters, emphasized the growing demands of offshore wind projects, stating, “Over the past 15 years in the offshore wind business, we’ve seen projects move further out from the coast and require additional payload which has led us to add additional H145s to our fleet.” He highlighted the versatility and reliability of the H145, noting, “In addition to excellent OEI performance, the helicopter offers the chance to quickly perform role changes for various customer missions and is very reliable and easy to maintain. The H145 is the perfect tool for the operation and maintenance phase in offshore wind operations, and we will see a lot more demand for it in this market in the near future.”
From Airbus’ perspective, Axel Humpert, Senior Vice President and Head of the H145 Programme, praised the ongoing partnership with HTM. “The H145 is ideally suited for offshore wind operations due to the significant capacity it offers for transporting passengers and cargo, as well as its outstanding hover performance for hoisting operations,” he said. Humpert expressed satisfaction with HTM’s continued trust in Airbus helicopters as they expand their operational fleet.
This new order will increase HTM’s collection of Airbus helicopters to a total of 18, including a mix of H125s, H135s, and H145s supporting various missions. The addition of the newly ordered helicopter will elevate HTM’s H145 fleet to eight, potentially ten with the options. Seven of these helicopters could be designated to support offshore operations.
HTM has been a pioneer in adapting the latest helicopter technologies for offshore applications. The company was the first operator to utilize a five-bladed H145 for offshore wind operations in 2021, and they participated in a groundbreaking trial at Hywind Tampen in late 2023, where the aircraft hoisted crew members into floating wind turbines.
The updated H145 model features a five-bladed rotor that increases the useful load by 150 kg and a new bearingless main rotor design that simplifies maintenance and enhances flight comfort. Globally, the H145 family boasts over 1,675 helicopters in service, accumulating more than 7.6 million flight hours. Equipped with dual Safran Arriel 2E engines, FADEC systems, and the Helionix digital avionics suite, the H145 stands out for its safety features, including a high-performance 4-axis autopilot that notably reduces pilot workload. Additionally, its low noise and CO2 emissions make the H145 a leader in environmental conscientiousness within its class.