Heligo Charters Private Limited (HCPL), a Mumbai-headquartered ad hoc helicopter operator, has taken delivery of its first H145 helicopter in multi-mission configuration. The aircraft has been taken on lease from Milestone Aviation Group and will soon commence operations in the state of Jharkhand.

“We will use the versatile H145 helicopter for a variety of missions,” comments CEO Capt K Padmanabhan. “With enhanced safety features and a reputation for reduced maintenance, the H145 is an ideal craft for performing such diverse roles.”

HCPL is an onshore and offshore helicopter services provider to the oil and gas industry, and corporate and VIP travel sectors in India. The company currently operates 10 helicopters, including four Airbus AS365 N3 Dauphins.

Milestone's senior VP of commercial Michael York adds: “We take immense pride in the fact that Heligo has placed its trust in Milestone's certainty of execution to deliver the aircraft, coupled with our financial and technical capabilities. We look forward to continuing to grow this long-term relationship.”

The H145 is in the four-tonne class twin engine rotorcraft product range and, Airbus says, offers favourable performance in hot and high conditions. It has a comparatively small footprint and a large cabin, and features Helionix avionics, Arriel 2E engines, an enhanced transmission system and a Fenestron anti-torque device. Built-in safety aspects include an energy-absorbing fuselage and seats and crash-resistant fuel cells. The cabin has no partitions, centre or door posts and enables loading from the side or rear.