Latin America's Helicopter Market Hits 420 Units in 2024 Airbus

The Latin American helicopter market experienced significant growth in 2024, with over 420 helicopters operating across the region, including 140 units in Mexico, according to Guillaume Leprince, CEO, Airbus Helicopters Mexico. Key developments include the introduction of H145 helicopters in Honduras and the planned delivery of H225 models to the Ecuadorian Armed Forces in early 2025.

“We saw the same trend in Latin America: a very positive dynamic in 2024, with an increase in fleets across the region,” he said in an interview with A21.

Leprince highlighted the diverse operational needs of these aircraft and emphasized the importance of Airbus’s “Flight Hour” program, which facilitates rapid spare parts delivery to minimize repair downtime. “This program allows us to take responsibility for delivering parts, providing support and technical assistance to customers, and, if they wish, performing helicopter maintenance services for the cost of the flight hours alone,” he explained.

Active for several years in Mexico, the program serves both government and private clients and operates as a flexible rental option in countries like Ecuador. “It has a fixed rate, so customers know the annual cost upfront. This makes planning easier, especially since governments face budgetary constraints. It helps customers significantly and ensures aircraft availability for their missions,” he added.

In Mexico, helicopter demand is rising, particularly for the H125 model, which was promoted at the 2025 Mexico Aerospace Fair (FAMEX) for its firefighting capabilities.

The H125 is a single-rotor helicopter with low acquisition and operating costs and has no competitors at its level in the market. Notably, it is the only model capable of landing on Pico de Orizaba—the highest peak in Mexico at 5,636 meters above sea level—demonstrating its superior high-altitude performance. The aircraft is already in use in states such as Queretaro.

Regarding the private helicopter sector in Mexico, Leprince stated that although it remains smaller than the executive jet market, demand for used helicopters increased in 2023. However, this growth has yet to develop into a robust new helicopter market.

The helicopter models most commonly used in Mexico include the H125 and H130 (for corporate use with a single rotor), as well as the H145 and H225—also known as the Cougar—operated by the Armed Forces.

“The country has significant needs, but with the product range Airbus offers, we can provide solutions for any requirement. Our versatile lineup allows for optimized investment,” Leprince said.