The maker of the controversial Super Puma has unveiled a change in its corporate identity.
Eurocopter, which makes the helicopter at the centre of a dramatic fatal accident enquiry in Aberdeen, has changed its name to Airbus Helicopter. The change comes after some difficult months for Eurocopter.
The Super Puma was also involved in the fatal crash off Sumburgh this summer which killed four of 16 passengers. Eurocopter is also the maker of the EC135 which crashed into the Clutha pub in Glasgow, killing 10 in November.
The rebranding exercise brings the troubled manufacturer in line with its parent company, the European Aeronautic Defence and Space Company (EADS), which changed its name to Airbus on January 2, although the change is set to be confirmed by a vote of shareholders in May.
The move is thought to bring the awkward EADS moniker the company has had since 2000 in line with the pan-European group’s largest and most well-known brand.
Tom Enders, chief executive of the newly-named Airbus Group said: “For many years, Airbus has been a globally renowned synonym for technology breakthrough as well as aeronautic passion and pride.
“Joining forces under the strong Airbus brand gives all our operations and employees the thrust and lift to capture global markets.”
Eurocopter, said its name change marked a “new era in the history of the company”.
“This rebranding works hand in hand with our ongoing transformation, which is now bolstered by the Airbus brand’s strong foundation in innovation, quality and industrial excellent,” said Guillaume Faury, president of Airbus Helicopters.
“Both of these together will serve our ambition of setting the industry standard in terms of safety, mission capability and performance.”