Airbus and Tata Collaborate to Launch India's First H125 Helicopter Assembly Line

Airbus, in partnership with Tata Group, will launch India's first assembly line for the H125 helicopter by 2026. This initiative aligns with India's 'AatmaNirbhar Bharat' program, aiming to produce high-altitude performance helicopters for both Indian and neighboring markets, enhancing local capabilities and reducing import dependency.

The European aerospace giant, Airbus, is set to inaugurate its maiden assembly line for the single-engine H125 helicopter in India, in collaboration with the Tata Group. This venture marks a significant move in the 'AatmaNirbhar Bharat' mission, targeting a rollout by 2026, according to Sunny Guglani, head of Airbus Helicopters in India and South Asia.

Guglani disclosed that this Final Assembly Line (FAL) will adhere to EASA-certified quality assurance standards, with Airbus experts stationed in India to monitor the process. Announced in January, the partnership aims to produce the H125 helicopter not just for India but also for export to neighboring countries, reinforcing its high-altitude performance reputation.

Highlighting the versatile applications of the H125, Guglani mentioned its utility across commercial air transportation, corporate missions, VVIP assignments, and aerial work. With over 60 H125 helicopters already operational in India and Nepal, the FAL is expected to further boost market dynamics, offering financial benefits and enhancing local customer access by eliminating import dependency.

Emphasizing the significance of this project, Guglani noted that the assembly line will catalyze the Indian market by making the H125 more accessible to local operators who can now transact in Indian currency. This aligns with the government's vision of self-reliance, providing a myriad of applications from charter operations to critical missions.

The Airbus-Tata collaboration represents a pivotal step in making India a key player in the helicopter industry, positioning the H125 as a versatile machine with a growing demand across various segments.

(With inputs from agencies.)