AeroMorning December 5, 2026

Cabo Frio, Brazil, January 2, 2026 — An Airbus H160 helicopter carried out an emergency ditching in the Atlantic Ocean, even though it is a twin-engine aircraft powered by two turboshaft engines.

Informed of the ditching, Brazilian authorities engaged in a   swift and professional Search and Rescue support 

The aircraft, operated by OMNI Táxi Aéreo, was carrying eight people (six passengers and two crew members) when the pilot initiated emergency procedures. The helicopter’s Safran‑supplied emergency flotation system, consisting of inflatable buoys and floats, deployed automatically upon water contact and kept the aircraft afloat, allowing occupants to safely evacuate into a life raft.

The Brazilian Navy immediately launched a Search And Rescue (SAR) operation, deploying an H225M helicopter to hoist all occupants and transport them to shore. No serious injuries were reported.

The H160 is a twin‑engine helicopter equipped with Safran Arrano 1A turbines, designed for offshore operations where engine redundancy enhances safety. The aircraft’s flotation system, developed by Safran, activates automatically in water landings and significantly improves survival outcomes in ditching scenarios.

This event highlights the effectiveness of modern onboard safety systems and the timely response of official rescue services in over‑water flight emergencies.