Airbus helicopters: models, range and which to choose for each trip
Airbus Helicopters, formerly Eurocopter, offers charter models from the single-engine H125 (the Squirrel) to the twin-engine H160, by way of the H130, H135 and H145. Below: the family in numbers, which model suits which trip, real routes with estimated times, and how the price is set. Figures are the manufacturer’s and are for reference; the final flight plan accounts for wind, passengers, baggage and permits.
The family in numbers
| Model | Passengers | Range | High-speed cruise | Typical mission |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| H125 | up to 6 | 630 km | 136 knots (252 km/h) | Tours and short transfers |
| H130 | up to 7 | 606 km | 128 knots (237 km/h) | Scenic flights |
| H135 | up to 7 | 633 km | 136 knots (252 km/h) | Executive transfers |
| H145 | up to 9 | 651 km | 130 knots (240 km/h) | Groups and more baggage |
| H160 | up to 12 | 784 km | 144 knots (266 km/h) | VIP transfers and groups |
Which model for which trip
- H125: a single-engine model of the Squirrel (AS350) line, with a Safran Arriel 2D engine and renowned high-altitude performance; widely used for tours and short transfers, for up to 6 passengers.
- H130: a single-engine model with a wide cabin and large windows, also with a Safran Arriel 2D, for up to 7 passengers; well suited to scenic flights and small groups.
- H135: a light twin with Safran Arrius 2B2 or Pratt & Whitney Canada PW206B3 engines; widely used for executive and air-ambulance transport, with a cabin for up to 7 passengers.
- H145: an intermediate twin with Safran Arriel 2E engines, clamshell rear doors and a flat floor, for up to 9 passengers; suited to groups and larger baggage.
- H160: the most modern of the family, with Safran Arrano 1A engines, Blue Edge blades that reduce noise and a cabin for up to 12 passengers; it is also the fastest of the selection.
Reference routes (approx.)
| Route | Distance | H125 | H130 | H135 | H145 | H160 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| São Paulo → Guarujá | 65 km | 25 min | 25 min | 25 min | 25 min | 25 min |
| São Paulo → Campos do Jordão | 135 km | 40 min | 45 min | 40 min | 45 min | 40 min |
| São Paulo → Angra dos Reis | 245 km | 1 h 10 min | 1 h 15 min | 1 h 10 min | 1 h 15 min | 1 h 5 min |
| São Paulo → Rio de Janeiro | 340 km | 1 h 35 min | 1 h 40 min | 1 h 35 min | 1 h 40 min | 1 h 30 min |
| Rio de Janeiro → Búzios | 145 km | 45 min | 45 min | 45 min | 45 min | 45 min |
| Florianópolis → Balneário Camboriú | 75 km | 25 min | 25 min | 25 min | 25 min | 25 min |
| Florianópolis → Curitiba | 245 km | 1 h 10 min | 1 h 15 min | 1 h 10 min | 1 h 15 min | 1 h 10 min |
Estimated straight-line times in still air. On legs over about 400 km, a refuelling stop may be needed depending on weight and reserves.
On board and in operation
- Airbus Helicopters, formerly Eurocopter, describes itself as the world’s largest civil helicopter manufacturer.
- The H125 and H130 are single-engine; the H135, H145 and H160 are twins.
- Ranges in the table are the manufacturer’s maximum reference figures at fast cruise speed; real planning with reserves, passengers and baggage gives a shorter usable range.
- Charter fleets also include models under earlier names, such as the AS350 B2/B3 Squirrel, EC130 B4/T2, EC135 and EC145.
- Landings in cities depend on approved helipads and air traffic control; the operator confirms departure and arrival helipads in the quote.
- Baggage weight on helicopters is limited; soft bags are easier to stow.
How the price is set
Aircraft are quoted per trip: the price depends on the model, aircraft positioning, one-way or return, waiting time, airport and overflight fees and extra services. On routes with an empty return, empty legs can lower the cost. Embarque Oficial is independent and has no corporate link to Airbus; the brands mentioned belong to their owners. Sources: Airbus Helicopters published specifications.
FAQ: Airbus helicopters
Which models in the family are available?
In charter you will mostly find the Squirrel (H125/AS350) and the H130/EC130, plus the H135 and H145 twins and, for VIP operations, the H160. Availability depends on date and region, and the quote states the exact model.
What is the range of each model?
H125: 630 km; H130: 606 km; H135: 633 km; H145: 651 km; H160: 784 km.
How many passengers fit?
H125: up to 6 passengers. H130 and H135: up to 7. H145: up to 9. H160: up to 12. Executive layouts usually have fewer seats; the exact number also depends on baggage and fuel weight.
Can it fly from Florianópolis to Balneário Camboriú non-stop?
Yes, with the H125, in about 25 min.
What is the cruise speed?
H125: 136 knots (252 km/h); H130: 128 knots (237 km/h); H135: 136 knots (252 km/h); H145: 130 knots (240 km/h); H160: 144 knots (266 km/h).
How much does a charter cost?
It is quoted per trip, depending on model, positioning, fees and services; empty legs can lower the cost.
See also: Airbus helicopter charter · Airbus H125 specifications · Airbus H145 specifications · Airbus H160 specifications · EC130 B4 charter price
Send origin, destination, dates, passengers and luggage to receive a quote: WhatsApp +55 48 98877-0541 · sales@embarqueoficial.com
