In its 16th annual Turbine-Powered Civil Helicopter Purchase Outlook, Honeywell Aerospace expects that 4,800?5,500 civilian-use helicopters will be delivered during 2014?2018. Overall demand remains steady versus the 2013 five-year forecast, with large fleet operator requirements offsetting a moderate softening in new helicopter purchase plans reported in the 2014 Honeywell survey. Latin America continues to lead all regions in new purchase rates, with up to 32 per cent of respondent fleets slated for turnover with a new helicopter replacement or addition.
The forecast of civil turbine-powered helicopter purchases has the five-year share of demand from the US and Canada at 26 per cent, which combined with Latin America represents 50 per cent of the total global demand. Europe?s share closely follows with 23 per cent, with the Asia-Oceania region accounting for 19 per cent, and Africa and the Middle East ranking under eight percent.
Tom Hart, vice president, defense and space sales, Honeywell Aerospace, said, ?Global demand looks steady on the heels of strong 2013 performance. Utility helicopter purchase interest is trending upward.
Helicopter replacement cycles and increased operating hours in the law enforcement and oil and gas industries helps sustain demand in those sectors. Several new platforms are scheduled to enter service in the next few years and this also is expected to bolster overall demand.?
Operators who intend to purchase a helicopter within the next five years noted that the age of their current aircraft, contracted replacement cycle and warranty expiration were key drivers for their decision. For those surveyed, the make and model choice for their new aircraft is strongly influenced by range, cabin size, reliability and safety, hot/high performance, and brand experience.
Helicopter fleet utilisation is expected to increase this year. Planned increases by region include:North America: 20 per cent of operators plan increases, and only seven per cent plan decreases.
Europe: 22 per cent of operators plan increases, and six per cent plan decreases.
Latin America: 36 per cent of operators plan increases, and only four percent plan decreases.
Middle East and Africa: 23 per cent of operators plan increases, and only 11 per cent plan decreases.
Asia: 29 per cent of operators plan increases, and six percent plan decreases.
