24 January 2012
Following on from Robinson’s news that it doubled production in 2011, Eurocopter has followed the rotary trend with a reported 12% increase in orders taken during 2011.
A statement from the manufacturer included, ‘Eurocopter generated a record high annual turnover in 2011 as the company benefitted from long-term strategies of investing in innovation to keep its helicopter product line at the forefront, growing the international footprint, developing services businesses and optimizing internal operations.
‘The deliveries of 503 rotary-wing aircraft in 2011, along with Eurocopter’s enhanced support and services activities, generated a turnover of 5.4 billion euros – representing a growth of 12.5 percent from the previous year, and marking the first time Eurocopter’s annual turnover has surpassed the 5 billion euro volume. Deliveries included the 1,000th Dauphin, which was received by Indian operator Pawan Hans; the 1,000th EC135, provided to the German ADAC automobile club – one of Eurocopter’s longest-standing customers; and the 100th EC225, accepted by the Bristow Group.
‘New helicopter orders also picked up last year, with the 457 net bookings representing a value of 4.7 billion euros, compared with the 346 helicopters sold in 2010. The year’s business included initial firm orders for the new EC175; major bookings for the EC225 from CHC Helicopter, CITIC Offshore Helicopter Co., Bristow Helicopters and RTE; the continuation of orders from the U.S. Army for the UH-72A Lakota; and the first large booking for Eurocopter’s enhanced EC145 T2 helicopter version from Germany’s DRF Luftrettung.’
Looking at 2012, the report continued, ‘2012 flight plan
‘Eurocopter’s ambitious innovation program, the growth of its international footprint and further expansion of the services offering will remain priorities for the coming year. This includes continued development of the X4 – which will introduce a revolution in helicopter operations for Eurocopter’s Dauphin successor; inauguration of the EC725 assembly line in Brazil and the phase-in of a production facility for aerostructures and components in Mexico; as well as the broadening of support, services and MRO (maintenance, repair and overhaul) business for Eurocopter and non-Eurocopter helicopters.
‘The next-generation EC175 will enter service in 2012, incorporating significantly increased range and payload capacity – making it the first seven metric ton-category helicopter delivered with such capabilities.
‘Eurocopter also will focus on production ramp-up activity to meet a strengthening international marketplace, which includes increasing the output for its Super Puma family, the EC145 T2, the Ecureuil family, along with the NH90 and Tiger military helicopters.’ <a href=”http://www.eurocopter.com”>Click here for more</a>
