Verticon 2025 turned Dallas into a bustling business hub last week as over 14,400 visitors from nearly 90 countries converged for the world’s largest vertical aviation trade show and conference. Despite past fluctuations in the industry, attendees exuded a palpable sense of optimism, underpinned this time by solid, substantiated orders rather than speculative hype.
Orders are largely fueled by the need to replace aging helicopter fleets, particularly in offshore oil and gas sectors, alongside organic growth in emergency medical services (EMS) and firefighting markets. One industry CEO aptly summed up the mood: “There’s a real feel of optimism here. But unlike the specter of 2014, this time, it’s backed by discipline.”
This positive sentiment manifested in significant product launches, acquisitions, and millions of dollars in new business commitments. The event's first highlight was the unveiling of Airbus’s new H140 light twin-engine helicopter, a robust upgrade of the H135, set to enter service in the EMS market by 2028. This new aircraft boasts two Safran Arrius 2E 700 shp engines.
Robinson also made waves with its R88 helicopter, powered by a single Safran Arriel 2W engine. The R88 features eight main cabin seats, two cockpit seats for a total cabin volume of 275 cubic feet, and a price tag of $3.8 million. With a range exceeding 350 nautical miles and an internal payload of more than 2,800 pounds, this aircraft promises to cater to an expanding market.
Sikorsky presented its improved S-92 Phase IV main gearbox, a technology backed by over $100 million in investment. Notably, this gearbox features an auxiliary lubrication system that activates in the event of primary oil pressure loss, allowing for safer operations. FAA certification for this innovation is anticipated in 2025. Leon Silva, vice president of Global Commercial and Military Systems at Sikorsky, remarked, “The Phase IV main gearbox builds upon its predecessor’s reputation as one of the best and most reliable gearboxes in the industry.”
In addition to new aircraft, several businesses announced service expansions. Rotortrade launched RotorLease, offering a variety of leasing options, including operational short and long-term leases. Shakespeare Heli Finance was also introduced, aiming to ease helicopter asset acquisition and re-marketing.
The event set the stage for major acquisitions too. The largest was the acquisition of Macquarie Rotorcraft, the helicopter leasing division of the Australian bank Macquarie, by a joint venture between Sumitomo Mitsui Finance and Leasing Corporation (SMFL) and LCI. This deal significantly expands their fleet to approximately 310 helicopters across various sectors, including offshore transport and utility markets, solidifying their presence in a competitive industry.
On the order front, Airbus Helicopters reported 118 commitments, including 63 firm orders. Among these, significant commitments came from leading EMS operators like Global Medical Response and Air Methods for the new H140. Not to be outdone, Brazilian operator Omni entered into a multi-services HCare service contract for the versatile H160.
Adding to this roster, New York State Police will be the first law enforcement agency to operate the H160 after placing an order for one H160 and three H145 helicopters, demonstrating the aircraft’s diverse applicability.
Moreover, Westair Helicopters secured an HCare contract with Airbus to support their H225 fleet in offshore energy missions in Namibia, while GDAT signed an HCare In-Service contract with Airbus for ten H225 helicopters based in China.
Bell Textron also sought to make impressions, signing a Master Purchasing Agreement with Air Methods for up to 27 helicopters, including 15 IFR-configured Bell 407GXis and an option for an additional 12 aircraft. They also partnered with Omni Helicopters International Group for offshore testing of the Bell 525 helicopter in Guyana as they await type certification.
Leonardo Helicopters rounded out the new developments by announcing orders worth approximately €370 million ($404 million) for various helicopter models, including the AW109 GrandNew and AW169, with deliveries set from 2026 to 2028. The manufacturer also revealed preliminary contracts for 15 AW09 helicopters targeted towards European and Southeast Asian clients.
Lessor Milestone Aviation Group showcased extensive lease agreements, with deals including seven helicopters leased to Omni Helicopters International. These helicopters consist of two Airbus H145s, one Airbus H135, a new Airbus H160, and a new Airbus H175, with deliveries anticipated between now and the second quarter of 2025.
In the offshore sector, Milestone also secured long-term leases for two new Leonardo AW189 helicopters with CHC Helicopter for use in Norway, expected to be delivered in 2025. Meanwhile, Offshore Helicopter Services UK signed agreements for four additional helicopters, including two new Leonardo AW139s.
Despite the overwhelmingly positive atmosphere at Verticon 2025, concerns linger regarding ongoing supply chain challenges that could pose risks to future growth. Additionally, attendees expressed worries over potential economic volatility, particularly as uncertainties surround trade policies and tariffs, which could impact the financial landscape.
Yet, the substantial investments revealed during the event, signaling a robust recovery trajectory in the civil helicopter industry, firmly establishes Dallas as the 'Deal City' during Verticon 2025 last week. With optimism and forward-thinking strategies taking center stage, the future looks bright for helicopter manufacturers and users alike.
