Monaco, 26 September, 2019 – Airbus Helicopters is to provide the on-board helicopter for the REV Ocean research and expedition vessel – the world’s largest and most technologically advanced.
The research expedition vessel, which is 182.9m long, is the flagship of Norwegian businessman and philanthropist Kjell Inge Røkke’s not-for-profit ocean research foundation REV Ocean.
It will carry one of the first examples of the new Airbus ACH145 with five-blade rotor and, increased maximum take-off weight.
The vessel, designed by Espen Oeino, is currently being towed to Norway from the Vard Tulcea shipyard in Romania and will accept the helicopter on board when the aircraft is delivered in 2024.
REV Ocean was established as a result of Mr Røkke dedicating significant resources to improve ocean health, vowing to give away more than 50% of his fortune to related philanthropic causes. Any profit generated through the use of the REV Ocean vessel is reinvested into the work programme for a healthier ocean.
The helicopter, which can operate from either of two helidecks on the vessel, plays a key role in REV Ocean’s primary science mission as well as re-supply and passenger transport.
Launched in 2018 and due for certification early in 2020, the new Airbus ACH145 has a bearingless five-blade rotor replacing the existing hingeless four-blade rotor, and provides 150kg additional useful load-carrying capability.
As well as the ACH145, the REV Ocean vessel is equipped with scientific trawls, sonar systems, laboratories, auditorium and classrooms, moonpool, autonomous vehicles, a remotely operated submarine with 6000 meters depth capacity, and advanced communication equipment. It can carry 60 scientists and has a crew of up to 35.
Head of Airbus Corporate Helicopters, Frederic Lemos, said: “It is a true privilege to have our helicopter selected by REV Ocean for this prestigious project. We very much look forward to playing our role in advancing the important work being carried out by Kjell Inge Røkke and his team.”
REV Ocean CEO, Nina Jensen, said: “We are delighted to be getting the H145 helicopter from Airbus. This will allow us to support our science operations, supply the vessel, and transport our passengers with the highest levels of safety, efficiency and environmental standards”.
About REV Ocean
REV Ocean is a not-for-profit foundation established and funded by Norwegian businessman Kjell Inge Røkke together with marine biologist Nina Jensen, former CEO of WWF Norway (Verdens naturfond).
For further information and imagery
Photos, videos and additional information on the project can be found here: https://www.revocean.org/
Media contact: Lawrence Hislop
Communication Manager
REV Ocean
lawrence.hislop@revocean.org
+47 48 50 05 14
About Airbus
Airbus is a global leader in aeronautics, space and related services. In 2018 it generated revenues of € 64 billion and employed a workforce of around 134,000. Airbus offers the most comprehensive range of passenger airliners. Airbus is also a European leader providing tanker, combat, transport and mission aircraft, as well as one of the world’s leading space companies. In helicopters, Airbus provides the most efficient civil and military rotorcraft solutions worldwide.
Media contact: Kieran Daly
kieran.daly@airbus.com
+44 7771 389229