When discussing modes of transportation, helicopters often carry the perception of being more dangerous than others. This is largely attributed to their mechanical complexity, low-altitude operation, and high-profile accidents. However, in reality, their safety varies significantly depending on their use.
While military, emergency medical services (EMS), and offshore operations face higher risks due to challenging conditions, corporate and luxury helicopters benefit from strict regulations, experienced pilots, and cutting-edge safety technologies. Airbus Helicopters – a division of the European aerospace corporation and the largest helicopter manufacturer in the world – makes a case for the latter category with its premium fleet.
The Airbus ACH160 is a prime example of how modern helicopters are evolving to enhance safety without compromising the comforts and pleasures associated with luxury. As the premium variant of the H160 and the latest addition to the Airbus Corporate Helicopters (ACH) family, it claims to be most technologically advanced helicopter in its class.
FirstClasse Malaysia had the exclusive opportunity to hop on the ACH160 for a quick around Kuala Lumpur with experimental test pilot Olivier Gensse to learn all about the groundbreaking rotorcraft. Here’s what we discovered.
Unparalleled comforts
Before we dive into the advanced safety systems of the ACH160, let’s talk about first impressions. Full disclaimer: This editor has never been on a helicopter before, let alone a luxury charter. With that said, we’ve seen our fair share of action movies and reality TV to know what the average helicopter cabin looks like. Suffice to say, none of the Love Island helicopter dates nor Singles Inferno transfers to “Paradise” hold a candle to this.
Designed for VIP transport, the ACH160 sets new standards for in-flight luxury and passenger experience with one of the quietest cabins in its category. This is thanks to the five-bladed main rotor and advanced damping systems that reduce vibration levels, ensuring a smooth, jet-like ride.
Sure, we still had to communicate with the cockpit via headphones; but otherwise, talking within the cabin was relatively audible. “It’s also good for the environment because when you’re flying over a city, if it’s quiet, everybody enjoys it. If not, you could get some complaints,” Gensse pointed out.
Another winning factor is the rotorcraft’s air-conditioning system, allowing precise temperature control and optimal cabin air quality with highly efficient air exchange. According to Gensse, other medium-sized helicopters tend to compromise in this area due to weight and power limitations.
Customisable interiors
In terms of interiors, the ACH 160 offers customisable cabin solutions with four configurations to choose from. With up to 20 per cent greater volume per passenger compared to previous generations, there’s plenty of room for comfort, no matter your preference.
The ACH160 Exclusive layout we experienced can seat a maximum of eight passengers, featuring armchair-style seats and a module between each pair that can be tailored for storage or a champagne cooler, if you like. Other styles include the ACH Line for a minimal yet efficient ambiance; ACH Edition, featuring unique high-end design experiences with brand partners like Mercedes Benz Style and Aston Martin; and ACH Bespoke, offering a comprehensive selection of fabrics and materials.
Furthermore, the ACH160 boasts expansive windows – 35% larger than its competitors – offering breathtaking views from vantage points one can only get from a helicopter. These are also equipped with electrochromic tinting to provide shade and privacy. Passengers can even adjust the ambient lighting, temperature, and individual windows in the cabin via remote controls or a dedicated app.
Uncompromised safety innovations
Now, for the important question: how safe is the ACH160? Well, this highly advanced piece of machinery is equipped with the innovative Helionix flight system, designed to improve pilot situational awareness and reduce human error.
“Behind many helicopter accidents, you will find that pilot workload is a key factor. When the workload is high, it’s hard to be efficient as some procedures are quite complex. You can train people, but if something is complex, you may still make some errors in the end,” Gensse explained.
“Through the system, we are able to manage and monitor everything. If I miss something, it’s not a problem because if something is wrong, I will receive feedback,” he elaborated. “There are two advantages to this – it’s simple, and when it’s simple for the pilot, it’s safe for the people in the back.”
To prove this point, Gensse simulated a few safety issues that may occur, such as facing strong winds and flying over challenging terrains. In both cases, the ACH160’s system provided immediate alert and feedback for further action, ensuring everything – and everyone – remained calm and under control.
Cutting-edge performance
Beyond safety and luxury, the ACH160 promises remarkable performance that makes it a leader in the industry. Boasting 68 patents in its design to deliver speed and agility, the helicopter has a range of up to 460 nautical miles (852km). This means it can easily fly from Penang to Singapore without the need for refuelling, at cruise speeds of up to 155 knots (285km/h) and maximum endurance of 4 hours and 30 minutes.
The Airbus ACH160’s state-of-the-art safety systems, exceptional design and comfort, and class-leading performance make it an ideal choice for high-net-worth individuals, corporate executives, and luxury operators worldwide. And for that one-hour tour around Kuala Lumpur, it certainly felt like we were a VIP.
For more information about the ACH160, visit airbus.com.
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