Predicts Demand Of 16,400 New Turbine Helicopters During Next Decade

Rolls-Royce forecasts a turbine helicopter market characterized by emerging near-term recovery followed by long-term growth. Over the ten year period, the company said at Heli-Expo 2010 Monday, total helicopter deliveries are predicted to be more than 16,400 units as the market responds to improving civil market fundamentals and the world's military operators address a growing call for more vertical lift capability. In both segments, demand for replacement of retired and aging helicopters will supplement civil and military market growth.

Ken Roberts, President of the Rolls-Royce Helicopter Engine business, said: "The industry did not escape the economic downturn in 2009, but we think emerging conditions set the stage for modest growth in the near-term followed by solid long-term demand. The rotorcraft market will continue to be counterbalanced by offsetting civil and military requirements, and stronger macroeconomic conditions are expected to result in increased demand in the future."

Rolls-Royce projects deliveries of more than 16,400 new turbine helicopters valued at $146 billion during the 2010-2019 forecast horizon. These helicopters will require approximately 26,000 new turbine engines valued at around $12 billion.

The civil market will experience modest unit growth, especially in new entry-level turbine helicopters. Rolls-Royce forecasts around 10,300 civil helicopters to be delivered during the ten year period with an overall airframe value estimated at $38 billion and associated engine value of $4.2 billion.

Military original equipment manufacturer (OEM) deliveries are predicted to total approximately 6,100 new military helicopters during the ten year period, with an airframe value of approximately $108 billion and an associated installed engine value of around $7.7 billion.

FMI: www.rolls-royce.com