Dubai Helishow 2010 Concludes with Strong Optimism for the Helicopter Sector

The Dubai Helishow 2010 featured a record number of exhibitors within the commercial, military private and public service, who showcased their products and services through indoor exhibits, static craft displays, and flight demonstrations.

The event also explored industry set regulations aimed at implementing higher levels of safety hardware for medical helicopters and training for crews.

The Dubai Helishow also paved the way for the signing of a multimillion dollar deal between the UAE Airforce and Sikorsky Aircraft Corporation. As part of the current deal worth an estimated $300 million, the UAE will take delivery of a total of 60 BlackHawk utility helicopters, with a direct order from Sikorsky for 20 UH-60L BlackHawks worth $300 million. The military remains one of the largest customers for helicopters worldwide with the associated maintenance and equipment contracts worth millions. At the show, the UAE Airforce displayed one of the previously delivered aircraft which has been weaponised and fitted with the FLIR Systems Star SAFIRE stabilized, multi-sensor system.

Additionally, the 2010 edition hosted discussion groups and presentations throughout its course including a discussion group, held by MedEvac Foundation International. The debate tackled issues surrounding advancement in the Medical Transport sectors worldwide through and their moves to improve research, education, outreach and other charitable services. Abu Dhabi Aviation also held a one day conference focusing on advancements in Emergency Medical Services utilizing air ambulances within the region and the deployment of their simulation centre in Saudi Arabia.

Ivan Kristoff the founder of EIGER Rope Access Work Inc. also held his specialist workshop, which presented the study of the High Rise Emergency and Aerial Rescue Team (H.E.A.R.T.). Mr Kristoff noted the importance of maintaining high safety standards in Dubai and improving its overall structure, “H.E.A.R.T. has been approached as a volunteer to assist and support Dubai government in creating a specialized urban high angle rescue unit. Furthermore, our presence in Dubai will surely bring worldwide media attention to various destinations in Dubai most importantly the Burj Khalifa.”

He added, “From my experience from working with various emergency services such as the military, police, and fire departments, I am keen on lending Dubai a hand in its quest to become a much safer place, by implementing the latest innovations in research and development for specialized training. At this year’s Helishow, we showcased how we are looking to take our industry forward.”

SkyTrac Systems, supplier of SatCom solutions for data, text and voice communications also showcased their next generation of ISAT-200 System with its ‘smart tray’, and portable DSAT-300 with 60+ hours of battery life.

"SkyTrac is committed to supporting our clients and resellers that operate in the Middle East and surrounding areas”, commented Steve Fuhr, VP and director of business development for SkyTrac. “I am confident that operators in this region will appreciate the benefits that an AFF/SatCom system provides in terms of safety and efficiency and I look forward to receiving feedback from our current customers as well as demonstrating our system to prospective new clients."

Also at the show, LB Aerospace Consulting unveiled for the first time the Italian invention by Gianni Cilli, the HELICOPT, a helicopter with counter rotating coaxial rotors without cyclic, variation of pitch, equipped with means for aerodynamic control of altitude and flight path. Fabrizio Cilli, CEO Cilli Consulting commented: “We are so proud to be launchingthis innovative inventiontheHELICOPT, for the first time in the Middle and the world from the Dubai Helishow.”