German rotary operator Wiking Helikopter Service has taken delivery of the first of two H145 helicopters ordered in offshore configuration. This marks the company's first Airbus Helicopters order and is the first time an H145 has been configured for offshore use.

With the second unit set for delivery in October 2017, the heli-copters will be used to drop off harbour pilots, fly rescue missions over the North Sea and transport technicians to offshore wind farms.

“We are very happy with the H145; it perfectly meets market requirements for hoist operations by two pilots flying to wind farms and ships in the North Sea,” says co-MD Alexander von Plato.

Due to its single engine hover performance, the H145 is able to bear up to 200 kg more payload during winch operations. It is also equipped with an emergency flotation system certified for Sea State 6, weather radar, an underwater emergency egress lighting system and a floating emergency locator transmitter.

“Before signing the order we examined this aircraft in detail, and we were impressed by what we found,” says fellow MD Holger Stockmeyer. “We're looking forward to using these aircraft in our demanding missions and benefiting from many technical innovations.”

For over-water use, the helicopter is able to seat up to eight passengers. It has a Helionix cockpit with four-axis autopilot and auto-hover.