Airbus Helicopters has secured type certification from Transport Canada Civil Aviation (TCCA) for its H175 super-medium helicopter, officially clearing the aircraft for operational deployment in the country. The approval marks a significant step in introducing the twin-engine rotorcraft to Canadian operators, where it is poised to compete in a variety of demanding sectors.
Designed as a multi-role platform, the H175 is positioned to serve a broad spectrum of missions. Its performance profile makes it suitable for supporting offshore energy operations, where range and payload are critical. The aircraft’s configuration also lends itself to search and rescue (SAR) duties, emergency medical services (EMS), and utility work in remote regions. Additionally, the H175 is equipped for private transport, public service law enforcement, and defence applications, offering flexibility across civil and parapublic segments.
The certification process validates the H175’s readiness for Canada’s diverse and often severe operating environments. From the Atlantic offshore basins to the isolated communities of the Far North, the helicopter’s design emphasizes robustness and systems redundancy. It is equipped with Airbus Helicopters’ Helionix digital avionics suite, which integrates a four-axis autopilot to reduce pilot workload and enhance situational awareness, particularly in low-visibility or adverse weather conditions. The avionics package also contributes to a lower crew training burden through commonality with other Airbus helicopter models.
In terms of performance, the super-medium class aircraft is engineered to deliver a competitive balance of speed, range, and useful load. It can accommodate up to 18 passengers, with a cabin designed to dampen vibration and noise, aiming to improve passenger and crew comfort during extended flights. The helicopter is powered by two Pratt & Whitney Canada PT6C-67E engines, which are already supported by an established service network within Canada.
Industry reception will likely focus on the H175’s operational economics and its ability to replace legacy medium-lift types. With over 300,000 flight hours logged globally across various mission profiles, the platform has accumulated a significant operational history since its entry into service. It currently holds certification from major regulatory bodies including the European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) and the Civil Aviation Administration of China (CAAC), providing a baseline of international acceptance.
For Airbus Helicopters, the TCCA approval unlocks a market where it already maintains a significant presence through its H125, H130, and H145 models. The addition of the H175 to the Canadian type certificate list allows the company to offer a broader range of capabilities to federal and commercial operators looking to modernize fleets or take on new mandates requiring extended range and higher passenger capacity.
