Helicarrier’s H215 Super Pumas Demonstrate Strong Engine Performance

The H215 Super Puma helicopters operated by Helicarrier feature twin Safran Makila 1A1 turboshaft engines, each delivering takeoff power of 1,357 kW (1,819 shp) and one-engine-inoperative capacity of 1,400 kW (1,877 shp) for 2 minutes 30 seconds. These engines drive a four-bladed main rotor with 15.60 m (51.18 ft) diameter and a five-bladed tail rotor, enabling robust performance across missions.

With a maximum takeoff weight of 8,600 kg (18,960 lb) internally and 9,350 kg (20,615 lb) for external loads, the H215 supports a maximum sling load of 4,500 kg (9,920 lb). It achieves a recommended cruise speed of 252 km/h (136 kts), hover ceiling in ground effect of 3,250 m (10,663 ft), and out of ground effect of 2,300 m (7,546 ft). Range reaches 642 km (346 NM) with standard fuel tanks at sea level, extending to 866 km (468 NM) in optimized configurations, with endurance up to 4 hours 25 minutes standard or 6 hours 35 minutes with auxiliary tanks.

Derived from the Super Puma family with over six million flight hours, the H215 maintains an availability rate above 95 percent. It accommodates 1 or 2 crew plus 17-22 passengers or troops, with cabin volumes of 11.4-13.4 m³ (402-474 cu ft). The design includes a modern glass cockpit, four-axis autopilot, and full de-icing for all-weather operations, supporting utility, firefighting, search and rescue, and cargo tasks.

Helicarrier’s fleet leverages this power for heavy-lift requirements, including 4,000-liter water drops and external payloads, in hot-and-high environments.