Honeywell

Honeywell has predicted that between 4,300 to 4,800 civilian-use helicopters will be delivered worldwide over the next five years, reducing the volume by nearly 400 helicopters announced in the last five-year forecast.

Shown in the company’s 18th annual Turbine-Powered Civil Helicopter Purchase Outlook, the reduction in the helicopter delivery has been attributed to slower global economic growth environment, increased instability in the oil and gas-related markets and other reasons.

According to the survey conducted by Honeywell, the new purchase-plan rates for helicopters are in stable condition, but operators are expected to buy fewer total new models from now to 2020, leading to a more cautious near-term outlook.

While buying a new helicopter, operators are expected to stick to their previous choice of the make and models, mostly subjected to range, cabin size, performance, technology upgrades and brand experience.

"Honeywell is well-positioned to help operators keep current fleets lasting longer with aftermarket upgrades and repairs."

Honeywell Aerospace defense and space president Carey Smith said: "The current global economic situation is causing fleet managers to evaluate new helicopter purchases closely, and that’s why we’re seeing a more cautious five-year demand projection compared with previous years.

"Even in a slower growth environment, Honeywell is well-positioned to help operators keep current fleets lasting longer with aftermarket upgrades and repairs."

According to the prediction, Latin America will undergo strong fleet replacement this year and can expect growth above the global average, an 8% increase over the last year.

The Middle East and African region has witnessed the second highest new purchase rate among other regions, with at least 30% of respondent fleets expected to turnover with a new helicopter replacement or addition.

In the region, more than 60% of planned new helicopters will be bought, which will have medium twin-engine models.

In North America, this year’s purchase expectations are forecasted to drop by 2%, but will continue to witness demand for light single-engine, and intermediate or medium twin-engine fleets.

The European region is expected to witness a small decrease in the purchase plans, with constant weakness in reported Russian buying plans.

The region is currently keen to buy light twin and single-engine models.

Among the BRIC (Brazil, Russia, India and China) countries, the demand for helicopter purchase is expected to witness a continuous decreasing trend and flow with stronger results recorded for India and Brazil.

Image: Honeywell presents 18th annual Turbine-Powered Civil Helicopter Purchase Outlook. Photo: courtesy of Honeywell Aerospace.