Rotorcraft
Airbus Helicopters Launches Concept X6 Heavy-twin Helo
Turbomeca proceeds with 3,000 shp engine demonstrator, aimed at heavy helicopters.
Airbus Helicopters' X6 is primarily targeting the offshore oil-and-gas market with a 19-seat cabin. Turbomeca’s Tech3000 demonstrator might be the basis for an engine on the X6. (Photo: Airbus Helicopters)
Airbus Helicopters' X6 is primarily targeting the offshore oil-and-gas market with a 19-seat cabin. Turbomeca’s Tech3000 demonstrator might be the basis for an engine on the X6. (Photo: Airbus Helicopters)

Airbus Helicopters unveiled the first artist rendering of the long-awaited X6 on Tuesday at Paris 2015. The X6 is a new helicopter in the heavy category that is now beginning a two-year “concept phase,” with the idea being for it to enter service in the next decade. It will in particular target the oil-and-gas market, with a 19-seat capacity, eventually replacing the H225 Super Puma.