European Aircraft Industry: Iran in talks to buy 48 Airbus helicopters

Airbus Helicopter

Iran is holding talks with European planemaker Airbus to buy 48 helicopters for civilian use, an Iranian official was on Saturday quoted as saying, as Iran continues its shopping spree of Western aircraft after the lifting of sanctions.

"The Health Ministry is planning to order 45 HEMS (Helicopter Emergency Medical Service) helicopters and the purchase is being negotiated by the Ministry of Roads and Urban Development," Iran's Financial Tribune daily quoted Deputy Minister Asghar Fakhrieh-Kashan as saying.

"Ports and Maritime Organization is also planning to hold a tender to purchase three search-and-rescue helicopters," he added. 

An Airbus Helicopters spokesman said: "We don't comment on discussions we may or may not be having with potential customers".

Read more: Iran in talks to buy 48 Airbus helicopters: report