Eurocopter International Pacific (EIP), has announced the approval in Australia and New Zealand of its AS350B3, EC120 and EC135 helicopters.
The first AS350B3 was delivered to New Zealand in October last year, and a further four are scheduled for handover in 1999. Deliveries to the region of the EC120 and EC135 will also begin this year.
"We will continue to reinforce our presence in the region, with 10 new aircraft being delivered in 1999 and with good sales secured for the year 2000," says EIP, the European helicopter manufacturer's local representative.
Overall, Eurocopter describes 1999 as a "satisfactory year", with 272 new helicopter orders booked, and 60 used helicopters sold. The orders were worth a total A$3.2 billion ($2 million), exceeding the company's targets, with the civil market accounting for 66% of these sales.
While the European market remained strong, and the USA experienced a slight downswing, the market in Asia plunged by 50%, says Eurocopter.
Source: Flight International
