Launch Customer Starlite Aviation Adds Firm Order Of Two AS332C1e, Will Deploy Its First Delivered Rotorcraft To Kosovo

Airbus Helicopters has unveiled the latest member of its Super Puma helicopter family: the multi-mission AS332 C1e utility workhorse version, which comes with a standardized equipment definition for more rapid production times and cost-effective acquisition prices.

The unveiling occurred at the 2014 Heli-Expo industry show in Anaheim, California, where the first production AS332 C1e was on display in the livery of launch customer Starlite Aviation Group. This helicopter will be received by Starlite Aviation next month, and follows Airbus Helicopters’ delivery of the no. 2 AS332 C1e last week to the operator, which will use it under Irish registry on a utility and medevac contract for EULEX – the European Union Rule of Law Mission deployed in Kosovo According to Starlite Aviation CEO Slade Thomas, “Starlite Aviation Group is extremely proud to take delivery of the first of the new Super Puma AS332 C1e helicopters. At Starlite we know the demands of commercial medium-heavy utility sector and we are delighted to be taking delivery of new equipment to help us continue with our growth across four continents. Being the launch customer of this new Super Puma is a measure of our faith in Airbus Helicopters.”

“Having Starlite Aviation as the launch customer is a strong endorsement of the AS332 C1e,” explained Airbus Helicopters President Guillaume Faury. “This rotorcraft responds to the need for a robust, modern medium-to-heavy lift helicopter with exceptional performance – and which can be produced rapidly based on a standardized equipment list.”

Starlite Aviation placed its initial order for two firm and two options of the helicopters in November 2012, and has since firmed up the two AS332 C1e options for deliveries this December. These acquisitions, which have been financed by Deutsche Bank, are part of Starlite Aviation’s fleet renewal and expansion program, with the rotorcraft joining an extensive helicopter fleet that currently includes 12 Airbus Helicopters SA330 Pumas. The AS332 C1e offers versatility across a full range of utility missions, especially in hot-and-high environments, as well as missions requiring a small footprint while delivering a significant lift capability such as the vertical replenishment of ships.

Included in its standard equipment list is the four-axis autopilot and associated automatic flight control system from Airbus Helicopters’ EC225 Super Puma helicopter, which provides flight envelope protection, unrivalled precision, and stability in even the harshest operating conditions. If equipment or systems are required beyond the baseline definition, additional customization can be provided by Airbus Helicopters and its wholly-owned Vector Aerospace company, or the network of subsidiaries and approved partners.

(Image provided by Airbus Helicopters)

FMI: www.airbushelicopters.com