Airbus Helicopters and EASA have signed a memorandum of cooperation with the aim of harnessing their respective experience and know-how to bring the next generation of VTOL platforms to life, along with the necessary regulatory framework to support them.

“I am very pleased to be joining efforts with EASA to build a common framework for the next generation of vertical lift solutions over the next decades,” says Airbus Helicopters CEO Bruno Even. “Innovation that benefits customers is at the heart of our strategy. We are committed to working hand in hand with the authorities on our innovation projects with the same professional approach that drives the design and certification of our current product range.”

The areas of cooperation covered by this agreement include high-speed flight with the Racer demonstrator, the certification of new piloting assistance systems such as EAGLE technology, the thermal/electrical hybridisation of rotorcraft, including electric vertical take-off and landing systems (eVTOLs), and condition-based maintenance.

“Partnerships with industry are part of our strategy to ensure that innovation in the aviation market happens safely,” adds EASA executive director Patrick Ky. “The knowledge we gain from cutting edge technology plays a significant role in helping us to prepare our certification methodologies for these new advancements. Cooperating on innovation with Airbus Helicopters represents an important contribution to this strategy.”