The Philippine Coast Guard has placed an order for one H145 helicopter, making it the first H145 parapublic operator in the Philippines. The four-tonne aircraft is equipped with high frequency radios, emergency flotation gear, fast roping, cargo sling, a search light and electro-optical systems to perform critical missions including SAR, medevac, maritime patrol and law enforcement. The latest contract will also encompass onsite technical support and CAMO services, fully supported by Airbus.

“We are honoured by the Philippine Coast Guard's decision to introduce the country's first parapublic H145 into its fleet, as the perfect complement to the current workhorse BO105 which has served the agency well for the past 40 years,” comments Airbus Helicopters head of southeast Asia and Pacific Philippe Monteux. “We have full confidence in the H145's ability to support the agency's work, coupled with our dedicated in-country customer centre that stays committed to supporting its operations in close proximity.”

More than 1,400 H145s are currently in service and the global fleet has achieved close to five million flight hours. The aircraft has Airbus' Helionix avionics suite installed as well as a four-axis autopilot system. A total of four H145s are flying in the Philippines, principally for business aviation.