New Delhi, India-based Pawan Hans (PHL) has signed a memorandum of understanding with Airbus Helicopters to collaborate on the future introduction of two new categories of rotorcraft in the PHL fleet as well as for the repair, maintenance and overhaul of its existing AS365N Dauphin helicopters.

The MoU, signed by PHL executive director air commodore Dayasagar and head of Airbus Helicopters for India and South Asia Ashish Saraf, also includes customised training and an on-site safety management system for PHL pilots.

Under the terms of the MoU, Airbus Helicopters will support PHL in growing its onshore, offshore and inland travel markets by introducing the H145 and H225 rotorcraft into its fleet. Airbus will also provide predictive and scheduled MRO services for PHL's existing Airbus AS365N Dauphin helicopters.

Pawan Hans is a dedicated rotary air transport provider and is the chief helicopter operator for the Government of India. It plans to expand its fleet to 100 units by 2027 and currently has 37 Dauphin units deployed for offshore oil and gas operations, VIP transportation and other utility duties.

The H145 and H225 are multi-role helicopters, ideal for supporting PHL's wide range of missions across the country. The H145 is a member of Airbus' four-tonne-class twin-engine helicopter range with designed-in mission capability and flexibility, especially in high and hot operating conditions. The H145 family, comprising the BK117, EC145 and H145, has more than 1,300 helicopters in service around the world and has clocked more than 5.5 million flight hours.

The 11-tonne twin engine H225 is the choice of commercial operators and governmental agencies for its long range and all-weather capabilities. Its payload and range capacity make it the most cost-effective helicopter for long-distance offshore operations, such as PHL's inter-island operations around the Andaman, Nicobar and Lakshadweep islands.