Airbus H145 conquers the Andes

Airbus Helicopters has landed the latest version of the H145 on the Aconcagua, the highest mountain in the Southern Hemisphere, culminating at 6,962m.

This is the first time a twin-engine helicopter has landed at this altitude. Test pilot Alexander Neuhaus and flight test engineer Antoine van Gent performed the flight.

“We had to stay focused on the mission due to severe winds with gusts up to 30kn and the low air density,” said Neuhaus. “The handling qualities of the new H145 are excellent and combined with Helionix and its four-axis autopilot, we reached the summit safely.”

The flight test was supported by the Fuerza Aerea Argentina, who provided aerial support with its Lama helicopters.