Airbus RACER: The High-Speed Rotorcraft Revolution Takes Flight at Paris Air Show 2025

The future of rotorcraft took to the skies above France this week as Airbus Helicopters' much-anticipated Racer (Rapid And Cost-Effective Rotorcraft) demonstrator made its debut arrival at Le Bourget for the Paris Air Show 2025 (Salon du Bourget). After a scenic and symbolic flight from its birthplace in the South of France, Racer is now on static display and set to wow audiences during flight demonstrations throughout the air show.

The Racer program, part of Europe's ambitious Clean Sky 2 research initiative, aims to bridge the gap between conventional helicopters and fixed-wing aircraft by delivering higher cruise speeds, improved fuel efficiency, and reduced environmental impact — without compromising the versatility and vertical lift capability for which helicopters are known.

A Speed Machine with a Purpose

Airbus has confirmed that during recent test flights, Racer has smashed expectations, reaching a remarkable 472 km/h (255 knots) in stabilized level flight at an altitude of 10,000 feet (3,048 meters). This performance places it among the fastest rotorcraft ever flown, and significantly faster than traditional helicopters that typically cruise at around 250 km/h (135 knots).

Its hybrid design — a blend of helicopter and airplane characteristics — is what enables this leap in speed. The aircraft features a main rotor for vertical lift and two lateral pusher propellers mounted on short wings for forward thrust. This configuration not only boosts speed but also reduces fuel consumption by offloading some of the lift and thrust demands from the main rotor.

Key Specifications of the Racer

• Cruise Speed: ~400 km/h (215 knots) targeted; demonstrated up to 472 km/h (255 knots)

• Engines: Twin Safran Aneto-1X turboshaft engines with an eco-mode system that allows one engine to be paused during cruise to reduce fuel burn

• Altitude Performance: Tested up to ~10,000 ft during high-speed trials

• Design:

  • Asymmetrical low-drag wings with lateral pusher propellers

  • High-efficiency main rotor system

  • Extensive use of composite materials for reduced weight

• Mission Focus: Emergency medical services, search and rescue, law enforcement, passenger transport, and more

• Environmental Goals: Up to 15-20% lower fuel consumption and emissions compared to current high-speed helicopters

A Showcase of European Collaboration

The Racer is not just an Airbus Helicopters achievement — it represents a pan-European technological effort, with major contributions from companies and research institutions across the EU. The project reflects Europe's strategic focus on next-generation sustainable aviation technologies.

Eyes on Paris

At PAS25 (Paris Air Show 2025), Racer is expected to draw large crowds, both on the static display and during its dynamic flight demonstrations. Visitors will witness firsthand how this demonstrator is redefining what rotorcraft can achieve, blending speed, efficiency, and mission flexibility.

As the air show unfolds, the Racer will serve as a tangible symbol of how bold innovation can shape the future of air mobility — faster, greener, and smarter.