Hoverfly is pleased to announce the acquisition of a new Airbus H130, a next-generation single-engine helicopter from the EC130/H130 family, aimed at further enhancing the company’s capabilities in executive, tourism, and corporate helicopter transport, alongside aerial work and air medical services. The contract was signed at Hoverfly’s headquarters in Pescara on May 18, 2026, with delivery of the aircraft expected by December 2026.

The addition of the new aircraft marks a further step in Hoverfly’s growth strategy (www.hoverfly.it – with operational headquarters based in Bellizzi, close to Salerno Airport) and confirms its commitment to investing in modern, efficient assets that meet the highest standards of safety, comfort, and operational sustainability. Configured with 8 seats, including the pilot, the Airbus H130 will be capable of carrying up to 7 passengers. The aircraft is ideally suited to premium tourism services, executive and corporate transfers, as well as missions to exclusive tourist and scenic destinations, further strengthening its role as a benchmark for sustainable tourism operations.

One of the distinctive features of the Airbus H130 is its reduced acoustic footprint. It is also operated within the strict limits defined by the Grand Canyon National Park. Thanks to its Fenestron tail rotor, Airbus describes the H130 as the quietest single-engine helicopter in its class, with noise emissions 6 dB below ICAO limits. The aircraft is powered by a Safran Helicopter Engines Arriel 2D engine, equipped with a dual-channel FADEC system and a third automatic backup channel, providing an endurance of over 4 hours.

From an ESG perspective, the H130 enables Hoverfly to strengthen performance across three key areas: reduced noise impact, improved operational efficiency per passenger carried, and compatibility with the use of Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF), within certified limits and depending on the availability of the supply chain. Airbus states that its helicopters are currently certified to operate with SAF blends of up to 50%, with the objective of enabling all helicopters to be capable of operating on 100% SAF by 2030.

“The acquisition of the new Airbus H130 is consistent with our industrial vision,” says Saturnino De Cecco, President of Hoverfly. “Since its foundation in 2009, our company has consistently invested in a modern, safe, and comfortable fleet, capable of delivering a high-end flight experience to our customers while maintaining strong alignment with the environment in which we operate. Noise reduction, onboard technology and safety, and the use of Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) within certified limits are essential to us and have always been key priorities. I can’t wait to fly the new H130!”

Founded in 2009, Hoverfly is an Italian executive aviation company operating in helicopter transport services, aircraft maintenance, continuing airworthiness management, and training. The company holds AOC, CAMO, EASA Part-145, ATO, HOFO, UNI ISO 9001, and UNI/PdR 125 certifications for gender equality. Additionally, it has been recognized by Luxury Lifestyle Awards as Best Luxury Helicopter Service in Italy for 2025.

Under the leadership of President Saturnino De Cecco, this new addition to the Hoverfly fleet consolidates its position as one of Italy’s leading operators in executive helicopter transport, underlining a strategy built on service excellence, operational safety, technological innovation, and a growing emphasis on ESG standards.

Visit www.hoverfly.it  to learn more today.