It was a tough year for helicopter sales in 2020, due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
According to the latest figures from the General Aviation Manufacturers Association, civil-commercial turbine helicopter deliveries for 2020, when compared to 2019, saw a decline of approximately 16.9%, with 532 delivered, while piston helicopter deliveries saw a decline of 20.7%, with 142 delivered.
But even in a tough year, there are some models that outsell others. Airbus, Robinson Helicopters, Bell Helicopters, and Leonardo made the list of Top 10 best-selling rotorcraft of 2020, with most companies grabbing more than one spot:
1. Airbus H125: 63 sold.
2. Robinson Raven II: 61 sold.
3. Robinson R66: 54 sold.
4. Bell 407Gxi: 53 sold.
5. Airbus H145: 53 sold.
6. Bell 505: 49 sold.
7. Robinson Raven I: 32 sold.
8. Bell 429: 27 sold.
9. Leonardo AW139: 21 sold.
10. Robinson Beta II: 18 sold.
GAMA’s complete 2020 year-end report can be found at GAMA.aero, which includes a breakdown by each manufacturer and each model.
See a list of the Top 10 best-selling piston airplanes here, the Top 10 best-selling business jets here, and the Top 10 best-selling turboprops here.
All photos courtesy the manufacturers except where noted.