FAA Certifies Airbus H125 IFR Capability

The H125‘s single pilot instrument flight rules (IFR) capability has been certified by the U.S. Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), paving the way for first deliveries in 2025 from Airbus Helicopters’ assembly line in Columbus, Mississippi. This new feature, developed in collaboration with Moog´s Genesys Aerosystems, consists of an upgraded cockpit and a new autopilot along with redundant hydraulic and electrical systems.

IFR capabilities will allow pilots to operate the aircraft more safely in low visibility and challenging weather conditions, thanks to advanced avionics and autopilot. The system offers advanced situational awareness and reduces pilots’ workload for operations, all while maintaining the flight capabilities that have made the H125 the undisputed leader in the light single-engine segment for its unrivalled power, safety, versatility and manoeuvrability.

“By adding this functionality to a light single-engine helicopter, Airbus Helicopters enables operators to carry out complex operations at a reduced operating cost. This new IFR feature will expand the helicopter's mission capabilities in all weather conditions, especially for critical missions such as public services, including law enforcement, emergency medical services, and pilot training - missions that are in high demand worldwide, and particularly in North America,” said Jérome Ronssin, Head of Light Helicopters Programme at Airbus Helicopters.

Today, more than 4,300 H125 family helicopters are flying across the globe in the most demanding conditions. The H125 is the absolute market leader in the intermediate single-engine helicopter category, achieving a market share of around 80% in 2024. In 2024, the Ecureuil family celebrated 40 million flight hours and 50 years since its maiden flight.