Aerospace

Cobham wins Airbus innovation award

Posted 25 June 2019

Last week at the Paris Air Show, Cobham Aerospace Communications Dourdan was presented with an innovation award by Airbus Helicopters, for their integrated antenna technology.

Above: An Airbus H175 NHV close up on the static display at the Paris Air Show 2019.
Copyright Airbus

The award-winning design integrates multiple antenna functions within the fuselage’s composite in one place, instead of as many as 20 externally mounted antennas per helicopter, each with complex installation challenges.

In the future aircraft manufacturers will be able to acquire the composite structures with Cobham antennas embedded inside, meaning fewer part numbers to procure and assemble. This will lead to faster production times, elimination of physical damage to external antennas and a more streamlined aesthetic for reduced drag.

Paul Kahn, President, Cobham Communications and Connectivity, commented: “Cobham is committed to working with partners like Airbus to help keep them at the cutting edge of aircraft innovation.

"This technology has applications beyond helicopters, on fixed wing aircraft and UAVs, where it has the potential to deliver substantial fuel and emissions savings. We look forward to announcing its use on other airframes soon.”