AIRBUS

Airbus H140 underwent extreme cold weather

The Airbus H140 light twin-engine helicopter successfully underwent extreme cold weather trials in Finland and Norway, performing reliably in temperatures dropping down to -40°C and heavy snow conditions.

For a closer look at the prototype handling the Arctic environment, monitoring telemetry, and testing cabin and windshield defroster systems during the winter campaign:

Cold weather testing objectives:

Temperature limits: Tested down to -40°C in Finland to verify structural integrity, stability, and handling qualities.

Engine air intake: Evaluated the Safran Arrius 2E engines under heavy snow ingestion and accumulation in Norway.

Systems verification: Tested functional capabilities like cockpit heating systems clearing frozen windshields and real-time monitoring of 150 kg of onboard test equipment.

Maintainability: Ensured mechanics could safely and effectively service the aircraft while wearing heavy winter gear in Arctic conditions.

Flight testing is well underway for the H140. How is the campaign towards certification progressing?

Dirk Petry: Our flight tests are running exactly according to plan. We currently have a fleet of three prototypes dedicated to our flight campaigns, with the third prototype (PT3) having completed its first flight late last year. Earlier this year, PT2 was in Finland and Norway for the certification campaign. In Finland, we pushed the H140 to its limits in extreme cold conditions down to -40°C, while in Norway, we were focused on engine air intake tests under heavy snow conditions. It was a very emotional moment for the entire team to see all three prototypes in the air in late December. We have now surpassed a significant number of flight hours, and this progress is a testament to our great, competent and ambitious team. Helicopter development is incredibly complex, and following our schedule so closely is a major success. Looking ahead, PT2 will travel to the US this summer for high and hot testing. 2026 will truly be the ‘year of testing,’ not just for the prototypes but also across our labs for component and functional verification...Head of the H135 and H140 Programme, Dirk Petry

 

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