CHC to launch next generation Eurocopter aircraft

CHC Helicopter Corporation ("CHC") has announced the signing of a contract for the acquisition of the first civilian EC 225 helicopter (for delivery in mid-2003) and a new AS 332 L2 Super Puma (delivery in Q4 2002).

CHC President Sylvain Allard and Eurocopter Group President Jean-Francois Bigay signed the contract at the Paris Air Show today, making CHC the launch customer for the EC 225, the newest addition to the Super Puma family.

The EC 225 is capable of transporting 19 passengers more than 400 nautical miles, with the fuel reserves required by relevant aviation authorities. In a Search and Rescue (SAR) role, the EC 225 can rescue 21 personnel at sea and safely transport them to an offshore platform.

With this contract CHC will operate a helicopter which boasts increased performance capabilities, thanks to a new main rotor with five blades, a reinforced main gearbox, new engines and a new integrated piloting and display system.

REF XQQAS XQQEE XQQCR