Airbus Helicopters has further strengthened its power line capabilities by signing contracts with Inner Mongolia Power Group (IMPG) and State Grid General Aviation Company (SGGAC) respectively at the 2nd China International Import Expo (CIIE) in Shanghai.

IMPG is among the top three largest power companies in China, responsible for supplying electricity to western Inner Mongolia. IMPG becomes a new customer of Airbus Helicopters by ordering two H125s at the CIIE. The two light single-engine helicopters will be the very first batch of helicopters owned by IMPG for power line survey and aerial work with hoist operations.

These two H125s will be delivered in utility configuration with a cargo hook and mirrors for sling operations and hoist. The helicopters are also equipped with special equipment such as a dual hydraulic system for enhanced safety, sand filters for operations in sandy environments, and an enlarged floor window dedicated for aerial work operations.

"Having our own helicopters after 15 years of aerial operation is a great pleasure," said Zhenguo JIA, Chairman of IMPG. "I'm likewise delighted that IMPG has begun this cooperation with Airbus Helicopters, the world leading helicopter manufacturer, which I believe will lead to additional mutually beneficial achievements in the future."

"We're very happy to see IMPG becoming our new customer by selecting the mission-proven H125 as its brand new fleet", said Marie-Agnes Veve, Managing Director of Airbus Helicopters China. "I'm confident that Airbus can support IMPG to grow together with our outstanding products and comprehensive after-sales supports."

In addition, SGGAC, a subsidiary of the State Grid Corporation of China (SGCC), the world's largest utility company, signed a letter of intent (LOI) with Airbus Helicopters at CIIE for the purchase of two light helicopters.

As a long-term partner of Airbus Helicopters, SGGAC operates China's largest H125 fleet. These two new light helicopters will strengthen the current fleet in performing power line missions.

Today, the H125 is becoming the biggest single-type fleet in China, with about 140 helicopters, mainly focusing on power line survey, firefighting, Earth observation, and passenger transportation. The H125 outclasses all other single-engine helicopters for performance, versatility, low maintenance, and low acquisition costs, while excelling in high and hot and extreme environments. It is a member of Airbus' Ecureuil family, which has accumulated more than 33 million flight hours worldwide.

Airbus Helicopters has strong experience and outstanding capabilities in aerial power line operations, with more than 45% market-share in the segment. The manufacturer offers a complete solution for national grid companies, including the H125, H135, H145 and H215.

Contributed by Airbus Helicopters