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In a major boost to India’s aerospace manufacturing sector, Airbus Helicopters has chosen Mahindra Aerostructures to manufacture and assemble the main fuselage of the H130 light single-engine helicopter.
This marks the first time Airbus will source helicopter fuselages from India. It is also a significant move under the ‘Make in India’ initiative.
Mahindra will produce the H130 fuselages at its advanced facility near Bengaluru.
Once assembled, the parts will be shipped to Airbus Helicopters’ final assembly line in Marignane, France.
The H130 is known for its wide cabin and low sound footprint. It is widely used in tourism, medical transport, corporate mobility, and law enforcement.
With helicopter demand rising globally, especially in emerging markets, the Airbus Mahindra H130 fuselage deal places India firmly in Airbus’s global supply chain.
It also brings skilled jobs and advanced technologies to India.
Airbus Highlights Trust In Indian Capabilities
Rémi Maillard, President and Managing Director of Airbus India and South Asia, said, “This contract marks the first time we are building a helicopter fuselage in India. We are doing it with a trusted partner, Mahindra. Our goal is to set new global benchmarks in quality and efficiency while supporting the Indian government’s vision of an Aatmanirbhar Bharat in defence and aerospace.”
Dr Anish Shah, Group CEO and MD, Mahindra Group, called the deal a strong endorsement of Indian manufacturing.
“This opportunity from Airbus shows their confidence in Mahindra’s capabilities. It recognizes our investments in technology, people, and processes,” he said. “We are proud to support Make in India and Airbus’s global supply chain.”
Mahindra Aerostructures is already a Tier 1 supplier for Airbus’s commercial aircraft programs, including the A320neo and A350.
India’s helicopter industry is growing fast. Use cases in tourism, healthcare, infrastructure, and disaster relief are expanding.
The government is also pushing for regional connectivity through initiatives like UDAN 5.0, which includes helicopter-based air mobility in underserved regions.
Industry analysts expect India’s helicopter market to grow at a CAGR of 7–9 percent over the next five years, driven by civil and military needs.
The Airbus Mahindra H130 fuselage deal is more than a contract. It is a strategic step in India’s aerospace journey.
By anchoring global production in India, Airbus is building a key base in the international aerospace value chain.
With first deliveries expected soon, the project may lead to deeper R&D collaborations, advanced local manufacturing, and stronger industrial ties.
Also Read: India’s $2.7 Billion PLI Scheme Set To Boost Local Electronics Manufacturing
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