Changi, Singapore. 22 February 2024 . Australian tech entrepreneur John-Paul Thorbjornsen (JP) has ordered an ACH125 helicopter for an expedition traversing seven continents in 300 flight hours.
“My passion for flying started when I took my first lesson at 16, and I’ve never looked back. The ACH130 Aston Martin Edition brought me on a cross-globe journey where I experienced different cultures, made new friends, and created many beautiful memories with my family and friends. With this new ACH125, I’m looking forward to exploring the world in a different way,” said JP.
“I did a lot of research for my next helicopter purchase and am impressed by the power and agility the ACH125 offers. I’m convinced that it’s the perfect aircraft to carry out this exploration.”
Calling it “an expedition like no other”, the adventurous executive unveiled his flight plan at the Singapore Airshow. Starting from his hometown in Darwin, JP will circumnavigate the globe in a convoy of two helicopters together with one other pilot, involving his ACH130 Aston Martin Edition helicopter and the newly purchased ACH125.
The convoy will first fly 11,000 nm to the North Pole, followed by another 12,000 nm to the South Pole, with the last leg of 7,000 nm across to Dubai. JP expects the helicopter convoy to be airborne for six months and will span 50 countries, passing the equator three times.
“We are so happy that JP has selected the ACH125 for such an important mission. It offers the exact performance and flexibility that is required for this undertaking and we can’t wait to follow this journey soon,” said Frederic Lemos, Head of Airbus Corporate Helicopters.
The ACH125 is a single-engine helicopter known for its performance, versatility and low maintenance, while excelling in high-and-hot and extreme environments. It is a member of Airbus’ Ecureuil family, which has accumulated 38 million flight hours worldwide. With built-in manoeuvrability, excellent visibility and low vibration levels in the cabin, the ACH125 has earned its reputation as a true multi-mission workhorse.
The Ecureuil has several altitude records to its credit. The most notable is the world record for highest take-off and landing of a helicopter on Mount Everest at an altitude of 8,848 m, an amazing record which still stands today.
