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Business Air News
Business Air News
The monthly news publication for aviation professionals.

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Airbus Helicopters
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SAF picks six Airbus types for Alps work
SAF already has 24 H135 helicopters in its fleet, making it a fleet leader in France. Six light singles and twins are about to join the fold and will be deployed in difficult-to-reach areas of the Alps along with Reunion island.
The order will expand SAF Group's current fleet of 44 Airbus helicopters, which is heavily involved in HEMS operations.
Read this story in our November 2018 printed issue.

French Alps-based operator SAF Group has ordered six Airbus Helicopters rotorcraft for HEMS, mountain rescue, aerial work and passenger transport. The order includes three light single and three light twin helicopters to be operated in metropolitan France and in Reunion Island, where SAF has recently acquired Helilagon, a rotary wing operator based on the island. Delivery of the six aircraft is planned for 2019.

“We are very proud of the long relationship we have with Airbus Helicopters,” says CEO Tristan Serretta. “In such a rapidly evolving market, a close relationship with the manufacturer is crucial to guarantee the performance and profitability of our operations.”

SAF currently operates 44 Airbus Helicopters aircraft for all types of civilian rescue and protection operations as well as safety services. Its fleet is mainly composed of light singles and twins, including 24 H135s, making it one of the largest H135 commercial operators in France.

“We are certain these new helicopters will meet SAF's stringent requirements for performance and reliability and will increase its capability to carry out critical missions,” says senior VP and head of Europe at Airbus Helicopters Olivier Michalon.

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