The U.S. Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has certified the H125's single pilot instrument flight rules (IFR) capability, allowing for initial deliveries in 2025 from Airbus Helicopters’ assembly line in Columbus, Mississippi. This feature, created in partnership with Moog's Genesys Aerosystems, includes an enhanced cockpit, a new autopilot, and redundant hydraulic and electrical systems.
The integration of IFR capabilities enhances pilot safety during operations in low visibility and adverse weather conditions through the use of advanced avionics and autopilot systems. This system provides superior situational awareness and alleviates pilot workload, all while preserving the flight capabilities that have established the H125 as the unequivocal leader in the light single-engine segment, renowned for its unmatched power, safety, versatility, and manoeuvrability.
“By adding this functionality to a light single-engine helicopter, Airbus Helicopters enables operators to carry out complex operations at a reduced operating cost. This new IFR feature will expand the helicopter's mission capabilities in all weather conditions, especially for critical missions such as public services, including law enforcement, emergency medical services, and pilot training - missions that are in high demand worldwide, and particularly in North America,” said Jérome Ronssin, Head of Light Helicopters Programme at Airbus Helicopters.
As of today, over 4,300 helicopters from the H125 family are operating worldwide under the most challenging conditions. The H125 stands as the definitive market leader within the intermediate single-engine helicopter category, securing approximately 80% market share in 2024. In the same year, the Ecureuil family commemorated 40 million flight hours and marked 50 years since its inaugural flight.
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