Airbus Helicopters has signed Indian market launch orders for its single-engine EC130 T2 with Sanjay Ghodawat Group and Global Vectra Helicorp Ltd. (GVHL), which plan to introduce the single-engine EC130’s enhanced version later this year for passenger transport services in Kolhapur and Delhi, respectively. The customers ordered one EC130 T2 apiece. The Sanjay Ghodawat Group is a diversified conglomerate with presence in consumer products, energy, mining, chemicals, and agribusiness. GVHL is India’s largest private helicopter company, which will assign the EC130 T2 to Birdie—its on-shore operations division offering charters and religious tourism services.

The EC130 T2’s cabin is suitable for one pilot and up to seven passengers. More than 70% of the EC130 T2’s airframe structure has been modified from the previous EC130 B4 version. New and updated features include the use of a more powerful Turbomeca Arriel 2D turboshaft engine and upgraded main gearbox, along with the incorporation of an active vibration control system and improved air-conditioning, distribution, and demisting systems. Performance of the EC130 T2 has been improved for a higher maximum gross takeoff weight (2500 kg for internal loads, and 3050 kg when external loads are carried), and a speed increase of up to 10 kts from the EC130 B4.