OREANDA-NEWS. On 27 February 2008 was announced, that a firm agreement was signed between UTair Aviation and Eurocopter during the HELI-EXPO 2008 major international exhibition in Houston (USA) on February 24, 2008 for the supply of new EC 175 helicopters to UTair.

EC 175 is a new release of the world’s largest helicopter manufacturer, Eurocopter. It is designed to carry 16 passengers and has a maximum takeoff weight of 7 tonnes. UTair received the status of the launch customer. According to the agreement signed by the General Director of UTair, Andrei Martirosov, and the Chief Executive Vice President of Eurocopter Philippe Harache, starting from 2012, UTair will receive 15 helicopters with an option for another 15.

“We believe these are going to be the best helicopters to transport passengers to oil platforms, as well as for VIP transportation purposes,” Andrei Martirosov said at the ceremony of the signing of the agreement.

"Eurocopter"s experience in helicopter construction and UTair’s experience in operating helicopters in various climatic and geographical conditions will ensure the success of EC 175 on the Russian market,” Chief Executive Vice President of Eurocopter Philippe Harache declared in his speech.

UTair is a major helicopter company with a fleet of more than 180 helicopters of all classes. The fleet’s capabilities and the professionalism of UTair’s personnel ensure high quality and safety of aviation operations of the highest complexity all over the world.