Airbus H160.

The Airbus H160 charter experience represents a new benchmark in civil helicopter aviation, combining advanced composite technology with a genuinely refined cabin environment. Purpose-built for executive and VIP operations, the H160 sits at the top of the medium twin-engine helicopter category and has quickly earned a strong reputation since entering commercial service. For clients operating in and around Dubai, it offers a practical and comfortable solution for short-range travel where speed and discretion matter equally.

History & Development

The H160 is the first Airbus Helicopters design to be built almost entirely from composite materials, a development that significantly reduces weight and improves both performance and maintenance characteristics. Unveiled publicly at the Paris Air Show in 2015, the aircraft completed its certification programme and entered commercial service in 2021. It was designed from the outset as a successor to the widely operated AS365 Dauphin family, incorporating lessons from decades of civil helicopter operations. The Blue Edge rotor blades — a distinctive feature shared with military variants — reduce noise levels considerably, making the H160 notably quieter than many of its competitors in the medium twin category.

Cabin & Comfort

The H160 accommodates up to ten passengers in configurations that vary by operator, though most VIP-configured examples seat considerably fewer in greater comfort. The cabin benefits from large panoramic windows that provide exceptional visibility — relevant both for scenic flights and for clients who simply prefer natural light. Noise reduction measures, including the Blue Edge blades and active vibration control systems, result in an interior that feels markedly calmer than older medium twins. Headroom and shoulder room are generous for the category. Depending on the operator’s fit-out, passengers can expect leather seating, climate control, and luggage space appropriate for short regional trips or transfer missions.

Performance

Powered by two Safran Arrano 1A turboshaft engines, the H160 cruises at approximately 140 knots and carries a range of around 410 nautical miles. That range figure, achieved under standard conditions, makes it well suited to regional connections and transfers across the Gulf. The twin-engine configuration and modern avionics suite meet the redundancy and safety standards required for offshore and overwater operations. The H160’s performance envelope also makes it a capable option for hot-and-high conditions, which is relevant in the Gulf region during summer months.

Ideal Routes from Dubai

With a range of 410 nautical miles, the H160 is a regional and intra-Gulf aircraft rather than a long-range platform. It is ideally suited to helicopter transfer missions, scenic flights, and short inter-emirate or cross-Gulf hops where avoiding road traffic or airport formalities is the priority. Typical uses from Dubai include:

• Dubai to Abu Dhabi — approximately 20–25 minutes, bypassing road congestion entirely
• Dubai to Ras Al Khaimah — approximately 25–30 minutes
• Dubai to Muscat — within range for suitably configured and permitted operations
• Offshore transfers to rigs or vessels in the Arabian Gulf
• Scenic flights over the Dubai coastline, Palm Jumeirah, and Burj Khalifa
• Resort and yacht transfers along the UAE coastline

Charter the Airbus H160 with Prime Jet Services

Prime Jet Services arranges Airbus H160 charters across the UAE and the wider Gulf region, working with approved operators to match the right aircraft to your schedule. Whether you need a straightforward inter-emirate transfer, a scenic flight for guests, or a reliable offshore mission, we handle the logistics so you do not have to. Our team is available around the clock to confirm availability, discuss operator options, and provide transparent pricing with no hidden fees.

If flexibility on timing is a priority, it is worth asking our team about empty-leg flights, which can offer significant savings when our positioning schedules align with your route. Contact Prime Jet Services directly to discuss your requirements and receive a tailored quote.