Airbus Helicopters Reveals X6

Stephen Pope

Tuesday, June 16, 2015 at 09:43 PM ET

Verified

X6 (Photo: Airbus Helicopters)

Key Takeaways:

Airbus Helicopters announced the X6, a new model intended as a modern replacement for the 1970s-era Super Puma, targeting the oil and gas industry and search and rescue operations.
The X6 will be Airbus's first civil helicopter to incorporate fly-by-wire technology, designed to offer a more economical operation and extended range.
A two-year development phase has begun, with the first flight anticipated in approximately five years and initial deliveries expected in about a decade.

See a mistake? Contact us.

Airbus Helicopters used the stage at the Paris Air Show to announce a two-year development phase for a new model code-named the X6 that would emerge as a modern-day replacement for the 1970s-era Super Puma.

Airbus Helicopters CEO Guillaume Faury said the X6 would primarily target the oil and gas industry as well as search and rescue operations, meeting customer requirements for a more economical helicopter that can go farther.