Airbus Helicopters unveils third H160 prototype

The third H160 prototype from Airbus Helicopters has been unveiled, featuring a striking carbon-inspired livery that represents the composite materials Hexcel Corp. supplies for the helicopter.

This gesture follows Hexcel’s announcement in June that its reinforcements, prepregs, adhesives, and honeycomb materials had been selected for the H160’s composite fuselage structures and main rotor blades. The H160 was designed by Airbus Helicopters to create added-value for customers in performance, economic competitiveness, safety, and comfort. Using Hexcel’s composite materials throughout the structure contributes to the lightweight fuel-saving design and performance optimization.

Airbus Helicopters decided to promote the H160 program and its high carbon-fiber content in a way that recalls the livery previously used for the A350 XWB. The A350 XWB has a structure that is 53% composites and Hexcel supplies the carbon fiber prepreg for all of the aircraft’s composite primary structures.

The newly unveiled H160 prototype is a fitting tribute to the 40-year partnership between Hexcel and Airbus Helicopters.