The Honduran government has purchased two additional H145 utility helicopters from Airbus.
This acquisition raises the Central American country’s number of H145s to four following an initial contract in 2023.
The first batch under this sale will be shipped to Tegucigalpa by the end of 2024.
Once delivered, the rotorcrafts will be used by the Honduran Air Force for personnel and cargo logistics, medical evacuation, search and rescue, firefighting, and other applications.
“The H145 helicopters respond to Honduras’ need for modern, multi-purpose helicopters that can be used for the next 30 years,” Honduran Defense Minister José Manuel Zelaya stated.
“Honduras, due to its location, is frequently affected by hurricanes, natural disasters, and fires.”
“The fact that we will have…H145s available in the coming years will make the population feel safer knowing that their Armed Forces have the most modern helicopters to protect and assist them during these natural disasters.”
‘Versatile Platform’
The H145 measures 43 feet (13 meters) in length and has a wingspan of 36 feet (11 meters).
The five-bladed helicopter is operated by two pilots and can carry up to 10 passengers. It has a maximum payload of 3,500 pounds (1,600 kilograms) and a fuel capacity of 1,500 pounds (680 kilograms).
It is powered by a twin Turbomeca Arriel 2E engine for a maximum speed of 143 knots (165 miles/265 kilometers per hour) and a service ceiling of 12,550 feet (3,800 meters).
“We are delighted to take another step forward in our collaboration with Honduras through this vital project and we are proud to know that our H145s will perform essential missions to protect the Honduran people,” Airbus Helicopters Latin America Head Alberto Robles said.
“With excellent availability and performance, the H145 has proven to be a very versatile platform that adapts perfectly to the climatic and geographic conditions of the region.”
