FAA approves Airbus H125 IFR capability
The US Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has approved a new instrument flight rules (IFR) capability for the Airbus H125
The capability was developed by Airbus Helicopters in collaboration with Genesys Aerosystems, a subsidiary of Moog.
It consists of an upgraded cockpit and autopilot, along with redundant hydraulic and electrical systems.
Airbus stated that the approval paves the way for the first deliveries featuring the IFR capability to be dispatched from its assembly line in Columbus, Mississippi, later this year.
The IFR capability will allow pilots to operate their aircraft more safely in low visibility and in challenging weather conditions, improving situational awareness and reducing pilot workload.
Jérôme Ronssin, Head of Light Helicopters Programme at Airbus Helicopters, said: “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.”
The FAA also recently approved the use of GPMS’s Foresight MX health and usage monitoring system (HUMS) on the Airbus H145 D2 and D3.
Oliver Cuenca
Oliver Cuenca is a Junior Editor at AirMed&Rescue. He was previously a News and Features Journalist for the rail magazine IRJ until 2021, and studied MA Magazine Journalism at Cardiff University. His favourite helicopter is the AW169 – the workhorse of the UK air ambulance sector! He also led the creation of Waypoint: The AirMed&Rescue podcast, serving as its Production Editor and co-host.