Honeywell projects deliveries of around 2,600 new helicopters between 2003 and 2007. Its fifth turbine-powered civil helicopter market outlook predicts that the sales boost will be driven in part by increased demand in law enforcement and emergency medical services helicopters.

These combined are expected to account for over half of all new helicopter applications during the five-year forecast period.

The survey reflects a three per cent compounded growth rate over the forecast period.

It also projects a four per cent increase in 2003-2007 deliveries compared to the period 1998-2002, when approximately 2,500 new turbine rotorcraft were shipped. A spokesperson said: “Estimated new civil turbine-helicopter deliveries declined slightly in 2002 over the levels experienced in 2001 and are likely to dip modestly again this year.”

A pronounced increase is expected for European purchases, although they won’t take effect until the year 2005.

“Two thirds of aircraft will not be due for delivery until the 2005-2007 timeframe, indicating no potential surge in European demand during 2003 or 2004.

“European operators continue to cite evolving regulatory requirements regarding the types of equipment that can be flown within populated areas as a significant factor in replacement demand,” said the spokesperson.