Two weeks ago at Vertocon, Airbus Helicopters launched their H140 model, a big move forward on the H135, but still fully dependent on its TCDS (Type Certificate Data Sheet). Press announcements referred to Safran Arrius 2E 700 shp engines, and were quiet on whether there was any other option.

From when production started after certification in June 1996, customers for the EC135/H135 have had a choice between Safran (ex Turbomeca) and Pratt & Whitney Canada engine options.

Safran aircraft – EC135T1, T2, T2+ and T3 have been powered by Arrius 2B engine, including advances through the 2B1, 2B2 and 2B2+

Similarly the Pratt and Whitney aircraft – EC135P1, P2, P2+ and P3 models – have all featured the PW206B engine, with the latest aircraft using the PW206B3 model

Airbus have confirmed to HeliHub.com that H140 purchasers will have no engine option – it will be built with the 700shp Safran Arrius 2E only.

HeliHub.com reached out to Pratt & Whitney requesting a statement, but no response was received.