LUXURY AND UTILITY COMBINED - Eurocopter

© Thierry Rostang / Eurocopter
to gain a firm foothold in the corporate and
private segment of the helicopter market.
This important segment accounted for 22%
of worldwide civil and parapublic helicopter
sales between 2005 and 2009, with 880
helicopters delivered to customers, or 16%
of sales in terms of value. With deliveries
of 440 aircraft, Eurocopter’s share of this
market over the same period totaled 50%,
or 40% in terms of value.
Despite a drop in sales due to the weaker
economy, the corporate and private segment
still accounted for 20% of new civil and
parapublic orders booked by Eurocopter in
the first half of 2010.
According to Mr. Royer, four key factors
define the corporate and private aviation
market:
- A helicopter is not perceived as a means of making a profit, but more
as a vehicle to be used for work or play.
- The customers have small fleets, often only one helicopter.
- On average, between 200 and 250 flight hours are performed each
year.
- The operators rightly expect only the best, whether it be in terms of
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Three cabin layouts are offered, with seats for 8, 6 or 4 passengers. In each case, customers have a wide choice
of materials and colors for walls, floors, ceilings and seats, as well as three basic external paint colors.
lead times, technical assistance or the quality of service in general.
Eurocopter currently offers 12 helicopters meeting the needs of these
customers, including four single-engine models much appreciated by
private operators around the world. With this comprehensive product
range, Eurocopter is well placed to respond to all requirements and
consolidate its position as the world’s leading helicopter manufacturer
in this market segment. ■
ROTOR JOURNAL - NO.87 - OCTOBER/NOVEMBER 2010
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