Hexcel to Supply Composite Materials for Helicopters

Stamford, Connecticut-based Hexcel will supply composite materials for the new H160 helicopter. Hexcel reinforcements, prepregs, adhesives and honeycomb materials have been selected for the H160's composite fuselage structures and main rotor blades. The H160 Airbus Helicopters is designed to create added value for customers in terms of performance, economic competitiveness, safety and comfort. The use of Hexcel composite materials throughout the structure (fuselage, tail boom, tail rotor and main rotor blades) contributes to lightweight fuel-efficient design and performance optimization. Thierry Merlot, President of EMEA-AP aerospace Hexcel, said, "Hexcel composite materials have been used in Airbus Helicopters programs for many years, and we are honored to continue our long-term relationship based on innovation and continuous improvement." "We thank Airbus Helicopters for their selection and are ready to continuously supply high-performance, weight-saving composite materials for this innovative rotorcraft." H160 configurations cover maritime transport, business and private aviation, emergency medical services, public services and commercial passenger transport. The helicopter is planned to enter service in 2019.

Source: http://www.hexcel.com/News/News-Releases/2544/airbushelicopters- selects-hexcel-as-supplier-of-advanced- compositematerials- for