Charles Alcock is managing editor of the AIN Media Group, having rejoined the company in 2019. He has been an aviation journalist since 1986, and previously worked for AIN from 1990 to 2017, most recently as editor-in-chief. His main focus is on covering new aviation technology and business models, as well as international news.
Having been raised in the London area, Alcock studied at the University of Manchester in the UK and earned an honors degree in Politics and Modern History. He speaks English and French, and some German.

Managing Editor

Charles Alcock

Airbus Helicopters and Leonardo have both enjoyed a flurry of new business this week, logging orders for dozens of new helicopters. Most of the announcements, which also include support and training deals, were made during the European Rotors show in Amsterdam.
Østnes Helicopters, which is the official distributor for Airbus in the Nordic countries, signed a contract for 10 H125s. These will join a fleet of more than 150 examples of the single-engine model in the region.
Also announced on Wednesday was a framework agreement between Airbus Helicopters and French operator Airtelis, which is buying up to five H145s. These helicopters will be operated by its subsidiary Oya Vendée Hélicoptères, which provides support flights for the offshore wind industry.
Leasing group GDHF signed a framework agreement with Leonardo to add 10 more AW189s to its portfolio. It expects the twin-engine aircraft to be deployed in the energy industry support sector with deliveries planned between 2027 and 2029.
UK-based Offshore Helicopter Services is expanding its North Sea fleet through a deal to buy a pair of AW139 intermediate twins. These aircraft are set to enter service in the second quarter of 2026.
Italy's National Fire Corps inked an agreement to boost its mountain rescue and firefighting fleet with an order for specially-equipped AW139 helicopters. Deliveries will start in 2025, adding to an existing fleet of 28 of the type.
Bristow Group signed a long-term support and training agreement with the manufacturer covering its AW139 and AW189 helicopters. This will involve a new AW139 full-flight simulator to be installed at the operator’s base in Aberdeen, Scotland. It is adding four more AW189s to its fleet in 2025 and 2026.
Meanwhile, during the Air Medical Transport Conference this week in Salt Lake City, Leonardo signed an agreement for Utah-based Intermountain Health to acquire a new AW109 GrandNew twin. The operator is also leasing an Enhanced Training Device Virtual Extended Reality system.
Global Medical Response has ordered 28 Airbus helicopters (six H125s, five H130s, and 14 H135s), which will bring its air medical fleet to nearly 200 Airbus helicopters.

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Helicopter Operators Sign Orders with Airbus and Leonardo

Both manufacturers announced new business during the European Rotors trade show

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In this article

Airbus Helicopters

Leonardo

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