Helicopters Airbus delivers two H135 helicopters to NASA

Airbus Helicopters has announced, that it has delivered two H135 aircraft to NASA to support space exploration.

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With the delivery of two new H135 helicopters to NASA, Airbus has expanded its portfolio of products that are supporting the future of space exploration. Both aircraft were produced in the manufacturer´s facility in Columbus, Mississippi.

The aircraft are planned to provide areal security and support of upcoming space explorations for NASA and private space company SpaceX. In late October, the H135s will support the SpaceX Crew Dragon launch from the air.

All aircraft are scheduled to be based at NASA´s Kennedy Space Center in Florida. According to Airbus, a third aircraft is already on order and could be delivered to NASA at the beginning of next year.

Main missions of the H135s will be areal security at rocket launches, Emergency Medical Services (EMS) and qualified passenger transport. The helicopter was designed to be able to perform a variety of missions.

David Ramsey, Chief of Flight Operations at NASA Kennedy Space Center commented: “As NASA looked to renew its aging fleet of helicopters, the H135 was selected due to its performance, capabilities and ability to meet our needs as we look to the future of manned space launch. We are very pleased to now welcome it to our fleet [...] For years to come, these helicopters will not only support security and routine missions at the Kennedy Space Center, but also support our astronauts and crew as they launch important missions to the ISS, the moon and beyond.”

Romain Trapp, President of Airbus Helicopters Inc., and Head of the North American region added: “Working with NASA is something that many of us – including myself – have dreamed of since we were kids, and we stand ready to fully support their new H135s as they support furthering space exploration [...] Building a helicopter that helps NASA drive critical advances in science and aerospace technology is truly an honor and privilege.”

Recently, NASA has signed a new agreement with Airbus Helicopters, which sees the manufacturer providing maintenance and fleet support for the coming 10 years. Airbus will have two pilots, two mechanics and one program manager installed onsite at Kennedy Space Center.

Source © airbus.com

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