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AJet Receives First Boeing 737 MAX 8 in Fleet Expansion

Turkish Airlines’ AJet receives first Boeing 737 MAX 8 aircraft, advancing fleet modernization and growth in low-cost aviation across Europe and the Middle East.

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Turkish Airlines Subsidiary AJet Receives First Boeing 737 MAX Aircraft in Strategic Fleet Expansion Initiative

Turkish Airlines’ low-cost subsidiary AJet has marked a significant milestone in its fleet modernization strategy with the delivery of the first two Boeing 737 MAX 8 Commercial-Aircraft from Irish aircraft lessor CDB Aviation. This Delivery represents the beginning of a larger transformation that positions the carrier for aggressive expansion in the competitive Middle Eastern low-cost aviation market. The arrival of these advanced narrowbody aircraft, registered as TC-OHB and TC-OHA and powered by CFM International LEAP-1B engines, signifies not only a technological upgrade for the young airline but also reflects the broader strategic realignment of Turkish Airlines’ subsidiary operations as it seeks to capitalize on growing demand for budget-conscious air travel across Europe, the Middle East, and Central Asia.

This development comes at a time when the global low-cost carrier market is experiencing robust growth, with the Middle East and Africa region specifically projected to expand at a compound annual growth rate of 5.7% through 2031. Such trends create substantial opportunities for well-positioned carriers like AJet to capture market share in underserved routes and price-sensitive segments.

AJet’s Strategic Evolution and Market Positioning

The transformation of AJet represents one of the most significant rebranding initiatives in recent Turkish aviation history, evolving from its origins as AnadoluJet into an independent low-cost carrier designed to compete directly with established budget Airlines across multiple international markets. Originally established on April 23, 2008, as AnadoluJet, the airline functioned primarily as a domestic subsidiary of Turkish Airlines, focusing on providing connectivity to smaller Turkish cities and regional destinations that were not economically viable for the mainline carrier’s full-service operations.

The rebranding process, culminating in March 2024, was more than a name change, it was a fundamental shift in business model and operational philosophy. Turkish Airlines’ Board Chairman, Dr. Ahmet Bolat, emphasized that the transformation carried “the promise of serving passengers with modern aircraft and accessible prices,” positioning AJet as “an important part of the cost-effective aviation industry on a global scale.” This required significant organizational restructuring, with Turkish Airlines incorporating AJet Hava Taşımacılığı Anonim Şirketi as a wholly owned subsidiary in August 2023.

AJet’s operational footprint is built on a dual-hub strategy. Its primary base is Ankara Esenboga Airports, where it dominates with over 60 destinations, offering operational advantages like lower airport fees, reduced congestion, and access to a large domestic market. Simultaneously, it maintains a strong presence at Istanbul Sabiha Gökçen Airport, operating about one-third of all flights and directly challenging the market position of Pegasus Airlines.

“The transformation of AnadoluJet to AJet is a strategic move to capture the growing low-cost travel market, leveraging modern aircraft and operational efficiency.”, Dr. Ahmet Bolat, Turkish Airlines Chairman

The route network strategy demonstrates AJet’s commitment to serving both underserved domestic markets and expanding international destinations across Europe, the Middle East, and Central Asia. This domestic and international focus has enabled AJet to build the operational experience and financial stability necessary to support its expansion initiative.

Aircraft Delivery Details and Technical Specifications

The delivery of the first two Boeing 737 MAX 8 aircraft is a crucial milestone in AJet’s fleet modernization. The aircraft, registered as TC-OHB and TC-OHA, were originally ordered by CDB Aviation in November 2017 and delivered to the lessor in August 2025, before being leased to AJet as part of a 12-aircraft deal secured in 2023. Currently, the aircraft are in storage at Sabiha Gökçen International Airport as AJet prepares them for service.

The Boeing 737 MAX 8 features the advanced CFM International LEAP-1B engine, which offers a thrust range of 23,000 to 28,000 pounds-force, and a maximum takeoff thrust of 29,320 pounds-force. The engine’s 9:1 bypass ratio enables high propulsive efficiency, reducing fuel consumption compared to earlier engines. Technological innovations, such as lightweight carbon fiber reinforced plastic components and advanced aerodynamics, help the 737 MAX 8 achieve fuel burn improvements of 13.1% to 18.9% over previous generation aircraft.

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Physically, the LEAP-1B engine measures 10.3 feet in length and weighs about 6,128 pounds, with a flattened underside to ensure ground clearance. These engines allow AJet to operate both short-haul and longer-range routes efficiently, supporting the airline’s ambitions for network expansion.

“The Boeing 737 MAX 8’s fuel efficiency and advanced technology are central to AJet’s strategy to offer competitive fares while maintaining profitability.”

These aircraft upgrades are expected to help AJet reduce per-seat operating costs, enabling the carrier to offer more competitive pricing to travelers while maintaining operational sustainability.

CDB Aviation’s Strategic Role as Aircraft Lessor

CDB Aviation, a wholly-owned Irish subsidiary of China Development Bank Financial Leasing Co., Limited, plays a pivotal role in AJet’s fleet expansion. Backed by investment-grade credit ratings, CDB Aviation provides competitive leasing terms and supports long-term fleet development for airlines seeking to expand without significant upfront capital outlays.

The relationship between CDB Aviation and Turkish Airlines extends beyond the current AJet transaction. According to CDB Aviation’s CEO, Jie Chen, the company is “very pleased to further advance the ongoing strong collaboration with our valued customer, Turkish Airlines,” indicating a broad, long-term partnership. CDB Aviation’s portfolio includes 39 Boeing 737 MAX 8 aircraft with an additional 19 on order, as well as substantial Airbus holdings, enabling flexible solutions for customers.

Leasing offers airlines several advantages, especially for low-cost carriers. The monthly lease rate for a Boeing 737 MAX 8 is approximately $400,000, allowing access to modern, efficient aircraft without the capital intensity of direct purchase. For AJet, leasing 12 aircraft represents a significant investment but also operational flexibility to scale fleet size as market conditions evolve.

“Aircraft leasing structures provide airlines like AJet with the flexibility needed to grow rapidly in a dynamic market without incurring prohibitive upfront costs.”

Turkish Airlines’ Comprehensive Fleet Expansion Strategy

Turkish Airlines has embarked on one of the most ambitious fleet expansion programs globally, aiming to increase its fleet from approximately 492 aircraft in 2024 to over 800 by 2033. This growth encompasses both mainline and subsidiary operations, including AJet, and is designed to leverage Istanbul’s strategic location as a global transit hub.

The airline has placed Orders for over 270 new aircraft from both Airbus and Boeing, including 163 A321neo, 66 A350-900, and 15 A350-1000 aircraft. Negotiations with Boeing for up to 250 additional aircraft are ongoing. The expansion is intended to support Turkish Airlines’ goal of transporting over 170 million passengers annually by 2033, more than double its current volume.

AJet is central to this strategy, with plans to operate more than 200 narrowbody aircraft by 2033, up from about 92 currently. The expansion will allow Turkish Airlines to serve price-sensitive passengers and secondary destinations, strengthening its competitive position against both local and international low-cost carriers.

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“Our vision is to make AJet a leading low-cost carrier, leveraging synergies with Turkish Airlines to drive growth and connectivity.”, Turkish Airlines Executive

Industry Context and Competitive Landscape Analysis

The AJet fleet expansion occurs amid a broader recovery and growth in the global low-cost carrier market, which was valued at USD 221.3 billion in 2024 and is projected to reach USD 430.5 billion by 2033. This growth is driven by consumer price sensitivity, expanding middle classes, and the development of secondary airports.

In the Middle East and Africa, the low-cost airline market is projected to grow at a 5.7% compound annual rate through 2031. Turkey’s geographic position allows AJet to tap into traffic between Europe, Asia, and Africa, catering to travelers seeking affordable alternatives to traditional carriers.

Competition is fierce, with established players like Pegasus Airlines, Ryanair, EasyJet, and Wizz Air operating in overlapping markets. AJet’s integration with Turkish Airlines provides unique advantages, including feed traffic, operational synergies, and access to premium airport slots, which can help counteract the scale and maturity of its competitors.

Financial and Economic Implications

The financial implications of AJet’s new fleet extend beyond leasing costs to include improved operational efficiency and expanded revenue opportunities. With monthly lease rates for the 737 MAX 8 around $400,000, AJet’s commitment for twelve aircraft equates to an annual leasing obligation of about $57.6 million. However, the fuel efficiency of the new aircraft, delivering up to 18.9% savings over older models, can generate substantial annual cost reductions.

Leasing, rather than purchasing, allows AJet to preserve cash for other investments, such as route development and marketing. The timing of these deliveries aligns with projected growth in Turkish and Middle Eastern aviation, giving AJet a chance to capture market share during a period of increasing demand.

Beyond the airline, improved air connectivity from AJet’s expansion is expected to stimulate economic activity in Turkey, benefiting tourism, business travel, and related sectors.

Future Outlook and Strategic Development

The delivery of the first Boeing 737 MAX aircraft is just the beginning of AJet’s comprehensive fleet modernization. The remaining ten MAX 8s are scheduled for delivery through 2026, and the airline has also signed leases for five Airbus A320neo aircraft, reflecting a balanced approach to fleet planning and competitive sourcing.

Turkish Airlines’ vision for AJet is ambitious: to transform it into a major international low-cost carrier with over 200 aircraft by 2033. Achieving this will require investments in pilot training, maintenance, route development, and marketing. The airline’s ability to adapt to changing fuel prices, regulatory requirements, and consumer preferences will be crucial for long-term success.

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“AJet’s growth is poised to reshape the competitive landscape for low-cost travel in the region, backed by Turkish Airlines’ resources and expertise.”

Technological Innovation and Operational Excellence

The Boeing 737 MAX brings significant technological upgrades to AJet’s fleet, including advanced flight decks, improved fuel efficiency, and reduced environmental impact. The aircraft’s four large 15-inch displays, similar to those in the Boeing 787 and 777X, enhance pilot situational awareness and operational reliability.

Environmental performance is a core benefit: the 737 MAX achieves a 20% reduction in CO2 emissions and fuel consumption over previous narrowbodies, with a 50% smaller noise footprint. These features help AJet comply with evolving regulatory standards and meet corporate sustainability goals.

Passenger experience is also improved, with the Boeing Sky Interior, larger overhead bins, and bigger windows contributing to a more comfortable cabin environment. Operational reliability and reduced maintenance needs further support AJet’s low-cost model by maximizing aircraft utilization and minimizing downtime.

Conclusion

The delivery of the first two Boeing 737 MAX 8 aircraft to AJet is a pivotal step in Turkish Airlines’ strategy to expand its low-cost subsidiary from a domestic operator to a significant international competitor. This milestone reflects sophisticated planning in fleet modernization, route expansion, and financial optimization, all designed to capture growth opportunities across Europe, the Middle East, and Central Asia.

The partnership with CDB Aviation and the integration of advanced aircraft technology position AJet to compete effectively in a rapidly growing market. As Turkish Airlines pursues its vision of becoming one’s largest carriers, AJet’s evolution into a major low-cost player will be central to its success, offering travelers more choice and stimulating economic development in Turkey and beyond.

FAQ

Q: What is the significance of AJet’s recent Boeing 737 MAX 8 deliveries?
A: The deliveries mark the start of AJet’s fleet modernization and international expansion, positioning the airline to compete in the growing low-cost carrier market with more efficient and modern aircraft.

Q: Who is CDB Aviation and what role do they play?
A: CDB Aviation is an Irish subsidiary of China Development Bank Financial Leasing Co., Limited, acting as the lessor for the new Boeing 737 MAX 8 aircraft delivered to AJet. They provide financial backing and leasing solutions for airlines expanding their fleets.

Q: How does AJet fit into Turkish Airlines’ overall strategy?
A: AJet is Turkish Airlines’ low-cost subsidiary, designed to capture growth in the budget travel segment and expand the group’s reach to price-sensitive and underserved markets both domestically and internationally.

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Q: What are the advantages of leasing aircraft for AJet?
A: Leasing allows AJet to access modern aircraft without large upfront capital investments, providing flexibility to scale operations and adapt to changing market conditions.

Q: What impact will AJet’s expansion have on Turkish aviation?
A: AJet’s growth is expected to increase competition, expand affordable travel options, and stimulate economic activity in Turkey and the surrounding region.

Sources: CDB Aviation, AeroTime, AJet Corporate, CDB Aviation News, Turkish Airlines, SMBC Aviation Capital

Photo Credit: CDB Aviation

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Aircraft Orders & Deliveries

Qanot Sharq Receives First Airbus A321XLR in Central Asia

Qanot Sharq becomes Central Asia’s first operator of the Airbus A321XLR, expanding long-haul routes to North America and Asia from Tashkent.

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This article is based on an official press release from Airbus and Qanot Sharq.

Qanot Sharq Becomes First Central Asian Operator of Airbus A321XLR

On December 19, 2025, Qanot Sharq, Uzbekistan’s first private airline, officially took delivery of its first Airbus A321XLR (Extra Long Range) aircraft. The delivery, facilitated through a lease agreement with Air Lease Corporation (ALC), marks a historic milestone for aviation in the region, as Qanot Sharq becomes the launch operator of the A321XLR in Central Asia and the Commonwealth of Independent States (CIS).

This aircraft is the first of four confirmed A321XLR units destined for the carrier. According to the official announcement, the airline intends to utilize the aircraft’s extended range to open new long-haul markets that were previously inaccessible to single-aisle jets, including planned services to North America and East Asia.

Aircraft Configuration and Capabilities

The newly delivered A321XLR is powered by CFM International LEAP-1A engines and features a two-class layout designed to balance capacity with passenger comfort on longer sectors. The aircraft accommodates a total of 190 passengers.

  • Business Class: 16 lie-flat seats, offering a premium product for long-haul travelers.
  • Economy Class: 174 seats.

In addition to the seating configuration, the aircraft is fitted with Airbus’ “Airspace” cabin interior. Key features include customizable LED lighting, lower cabin altitude settings to reduce jet lag, and XL overhead bins that provide 60% more storage capacity compared to previous generation aircraft.

Nosir Abdugafarov, the owner of Qanot Sharq, emphasized the strategic importance of the delivery in a statement regarding the fleet expansion.

“The A321XLR’s exceptional range and efficiency will allow us to offer greater comfort and convenience while maintaining highly competitive operating economics.”

, Nosir Abdugafarov, Owner of Qanot Sharq

Strategic Network Expansion

The introduction of the A321XLR allows Qanot Sharq to deploy a narrowbody aircraft on routes typically reserved for widebody jets. With a range of up to 4,700 nautical miles (8,700 km), the airline plans to connect Tashkent with destinations in Europe, Asia, and North America.

According to the airline’s strategic roadmap, the new fleet will support route expansion to Sanya (China) and Busan (South Korea). Furthermore, the airline has explicitly outlined plans to serve New York (JFK) via Budapest. While the A321XLR has impressive range, the distance between Tashkent and New York (approximately 5,500 nm) necessitates a technical stop. Budapest will serve as this intermediate point, potentially allowing the airline to tap into passenger demand between Central Europe and the United States, subject to regulatory approvals.

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AJ Abedin, Senior Vice President of Marketing at Air Lease Corporation, noted the geographical advantages available to the airline.

“Qanot Sharq is uniquely positioned to unlock the full potential of the A321XLR due to its strategic location in Uzbekistan, bridging Europe and Asia.”

, AJ Abedin, SVP Marketing, Air Lease Corporation

AirPro News Analysis: The Long-Haul Low-Cost Shift

The delivery of the A321XLR signals a distinct shift in the competitive landscape of Uzbek aviation. Until now, long-haul flights from Tashkent,specifically to the United States,have been the exclusive domain of the state-owned flag carrier, Uzbekistan Airways, which utilizes Boeing 787 Dreamliners for non-stop service.

By adopting the A321XLR, Qanot Sharq appears to be pursuing a “long-haul low-cost” hybrid model. The A321XLR burns approximately 30% less fuel per seat than previous-generation aircraft, allowing the private carrier to operate long routes with significantly lower trip costs than its state-owned competitor. While the one-stop service via Budapest will result in a longer total travel time compared to Uzbekistan Airways’ direct flights, the lower operating costs could allow Qanot Sharq to offer more competitive fares, appealing to price-sensitive travelers and labor migrants.

Furthermore, the choice of Budapest as a stopover is strategic. If Qanot Sharq secures “Fifth Freedom” rights,which are currently a subject of regulatory negotiation,it could monetize the empty seats on the Budapest-New York sector, effectively competing in the transatlantic market while serving its primary base in Central Asia.

Sources

Sources: Airbus Press Release, Air Lease Corporation

Photo Credit: Airbus

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Kenya Airways Plans Secondary Hub in Accra with Project Kifaru

Kenya Airways advances plans for a secondary hub at Accra’s Kotoka Airport, leveraging partnerships and regional aircraft to boost intra-African connectivity.

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This article summarizes reporting by AFRAA and official statements from Kenya Airways.

Kenya Airways Advances Plans for Secondary Hub in Accra Under ‘Project Kifaru’

Kenya Airways (KQ) is moving forward with strategic plans to establish a secondary operational hub at Kotoka International Airport (ACC) in Accra, Ghana. According to reporting by the African Airlines Association (AFRAA) and recent company statements, this initiative represents a critical pillar of “Project Kifaru,” the airlines‘s three-year recovery and growth roadmap.

The proposed expansion aims to deepen intra-African connectivity by positioning Accra as a pivotal node for West African operations. Rather than launching a wholly-owned subsidiary, a model that requires heavy capital expenditure, Kenya Airways intends to utilize a partnership-driven approach, leveraging existing relationships with regional carriers to feed long-haul networks.

While the Kenyan government formally requested permission for the hub in May 2025, Kenya Airways CEO Allan Kilavuka confirmed in December 2025 that the plan remains under active study. A final decision on the full execution of the project is expected in 2026.

Operational Strategy: The ‘Mini-Hub’ Model

The core of the Accra strategy involves basing aircraft directly in West Africa to serve high-demand regional routes. According to details emerging from the planning phase, Kenya Airways intends to deploy three Embraer E190-E1 aircraft to Kotoka International Airport. These aircraft will facilitate regional connections, feeding passengers into the carrier’s long-haul network and supporting the logistics needs of the region.

This operational shift marks a departure from the traditional “hub-and-spoke” model centered exclusively on Nairobi. By establishing a presence in Ghana, KQ aims to capture traffic in a market currently dominated by competitors such as Ethiopian Airlines (via its ASKY partner in Lomé) and Air Côte d’Ivoire.

Partnership with Africa World Airlines

A key component of this strategy is the airline’s collaboration with Ghana-based Africa World Airlines (AWA). Kenya Airways signed a codeshare agreement with AWA in May 2022. This partnership allows KQ to connect passengers from its Nairobi-Accra service to AWA’s domestic and regional network, covering destinations like Kumasi, Takoradi, Lagos, and Abuja.

Industry observers note that this “capital-light” model reduces the financial risks associated with starting a new airline from scratch. Instead of competing directly on every thin route, KQ can rely on AWA to provide feed traffic while focusing its own metal on key trunk routes.

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Financial Context and ‘Project Kifaru’

The push for a West African hub comes as Kenya Airways navigates a complex financial recovery. The airline reported a significant milestone in the 2024 full financial year, posting an operating profit of Ksh 10.5 billion and a net profit of Ksh 5.4 billion, its first profit in 11 years. This resurgence provided the initial confidence to pursue the growth phase of Project Kifaru.

However, the first half of 2025 presented renewed challenges. The airline reported a Ksh 12.2 billion loss for the period, attributed largely to currency volatility and the grounding of its Boeing 787 fleet due to global spare parts shortages. These financial realities underscore the necessity of the proposed low-capital expansion model in Accra.

The strategy focuses on collaboration with existing African carriers rather than creating a new airline from scratch.

, Summary of Kenya Airways’ strategic approach

Regulatory Landscape and Competition

The viability of the Accra hub relies heavily on the Single African Air Transport Market (SAATM) and “Fifth Freedom” rights, which allow an airline to fly between two foreign countries. West Africa has been a leader in implementing these protocols, making Accra a legally feasible location for a secondary hub.

Furthermore, the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) secretariat is headquartered in Accra. Kenya Airways is positioning itself to support the trade bloc by facilitating the movement of people and cargo between East and West Africa. The airline has already introduced Boeing 737-800 freighters to serve key destinations including Lagos, Dakar, Freetown, and Monrovia.

AirPro News Analysis

The decision to delay a final “go/no-go” confirmation until 2026 suggests a prudent approach by Kenya Airways management. While the West African market is lucrative, it is also saturated with aggressive competitors like Air Peace and the well-entrenched ASKY/Ethiopian Airlines alliance. By opting for a partnership model with Africa World Airlines rather than a full subsidiary, KQ avoids the “cash burn” trap that led to the collapse of previous pan-African airline ventures. If successful, this could serve as a blueprint for other mid-sized African carriers looking to expand without overleveraging their balance sheets.

Frequently Asked Questions

What aircraft will be based in Accra?
Current plans indicate that Kenya Airways intends to base three Embraer E190-E1 aircraft at Kotoka International Airport.

When will the hub become operational?
While planning is underway and government requests have been filed, a final decision on full execution is not expected until 2026.

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How does this affect the Nairobi hub?
Nairobi (Jomo Kenyatta International Airport) remains the primary hub. The Accra facility is designed as a secondary node to improve regional connectivity and feed traffic back into the global network.

Sources

Photo Credit: Embraer – E190

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Commercial Aviation

Derazona Helicopters Receives First H160 for Energy Missions in Southeast Asia

Airbus delivers the first H160 to Derazona Helicopters in Indonesia, enhancing offshore oil and gas transport with advanced fuel-efficient technology.

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This article is based on an official press release from Airbus Helicopters.

Derazona Helicopters Becomes Southeast Asia’s First H160 Energy Operator

On December 19, 2025, Airbus Helicopters officially delivered the first H160 rotorcraft to Derazona Helicopters (PT. Derazona Air Service) in Jakarta, Indonesia. According to the manufacturer’s announcement, this delivery represents a significant regional milestone, as Derazona becomes the first operator in Southeast Asia to utilize the H160 specifically for energy sector missions, including offshore oil and gas transport.

The handover marks the culmination of a strategic acquisition process that began with an initial order in April 2021. Derazona, a historic Indonesian aviation company established in 1971, intends to deploy the medium-class helicopter for a variety of critical missions, ranging from offshore transport to utility operations and commercial passenger services.

Modernizing Indonesia’s Energy Fleet

The introduction of the H160 into the Indonesian market signals a shift toward modernizing aging fleets in the archipelago. Derazona Helicopters stated that the aircraft will play a pivotal role in their expansion within the oil and gas sector, a primary economic driver for the region.

In a statement regarding the delivery, Ramadi Widyardiono, Director of Production at Derazona Helicopters, emphasized the operational advantages of the new airframe:

“The arrival of our first H160 marks an exciting chapter for Derazona Helicopters. As the pioneer operator of this aircraft for energy missions in Southeast Asia, we are eager to deploy its unique capabilities to serve our various clients with the highest levels of safety and efficiency. The H160’s proven performance will be key to reinforcing our position as a leader in helicopter services in Southeast Asia.”

Airbus executives echoed this sentiment, highlighting the aircraft’s suitability for the demanding geography of Indonesia. Regis Magnac, Vice President Head of Energy, Leasing and Global Accounts at Airbus Helicopters, noted the importance of this partnership:

“We are proud to see the H160 enter service in Southeast Asia, cementing our relationship with Derazona as they become the region’s launch customer for energy missions. The H160 represents a true generational leap, built to be an efficient, reliable, and comfortable workhorse, perfectly suited for the demanding operational requirements of the Indonesian energy sector.”

Technical Profile: The H160

According to technical data provided by Airbus, the H160 is designed to replace previous-generation medium helicopters such as the AS365 Dauphin and H155. The aircraft incorporates several proprietary technologies aimed at improving safety and reducing environmental impact.

Key technical features cited in the release include:

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  • Blue Edge™ Blades: These distinctively shaped rotor blades are engineered to reduce noise levels by approximately 50% (3 dB) and increase payload capacity.
  • Fenestron® Tail Rotor: A canted tail rotor design that improves stability and further mitigates noise.
  • Helionix® Avionics Suite: An advanced flight deck designed to reduce pilot workload through improved situational awareness and autopilot assistance.
  • Engines: The aircraft is powered by two Safran Arrano 1A engines.

Airbus claims the H160 delivers a 15% reduction in fuel burn compared to previous generation engines, aligning with the energy sector’s increasing focus on reducing Scope 1 and 2 emissions in their logistics supply chains.

AirPro News Analysis

The delivery of the H160 to Derazona Helicopters reflects a broader trend we are observing across the Asia-Pacific aviation market: the prioritization of “eco-efficient” logistics. As oil and gas majors face stricter carbon reporting requirements, the pressure cascades down to their logistics providers.

By adopting the H160, Derazona is not merely upgrading its fleet age; it is positioning itself competitively to bid for contracts with energy multinationals that now weigh carbon footprint heavily in their tender processes. The move away from legacy airframes like the Bell 412 or Sikorsky S-76 toward next-generation composite aircraft suggests that fuel efficiency is becoming as critical a metric as payload capacity in the offshore sector.

Frequently Asked Questions

Who is the operator of the new H160?
The operator is PT. Derazona Air Service (Derazona Helicopters), an Indonesian aviation company headquartered at Halim Perdanakusuma Airport, Jakarta.

What is the primary use of this aircraft?
It will be used primarily for offshore energy transport (supporting oil rigs), as well as utility missions and VIP transport.

How does the H160 improve upon older helicopters?
The H160 offers a 15% reduction in fuel consumption, significantly lower noise levels due to Blue Edge™ blades, and advanced Helionix® avionics for improved safety.

When was this specific aircraft ordered?
Derazona originally placed the order for this H160 in April 2021.


Sources: Airbus Helicopters Press Release

Photo Credit: Airbus

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