by A New Level of Luxury
While new Mercedes-Maybach models priced from $180,000 to nearly $250,000 seem unattainable for most, there exists a Mercedes-branded vehicle that makes these cars seem like public transport in terms of luxury. Technically, it’s not a car but the ACH145 helicopter from Airbus Corporate Helicopters, the business unit of the French aviation giant. The two companies have joined forces again to create the ACH145 Mercedes-Benz Edition, allowing a CEO to transition from a Mercedes condominium to a four-wheeled Mercedes, and then into a five-bladed one.
Interior Like a Concept Car
Inside, the cabin conveys the atmosphere of an EQS or Maybach concept car. Panoramic layout, molded seats with coordinated stitching, and genuine materials such as leather, wood flooring, and metal accents. This is no longer a utilitarian helicopter but a true flying business lounge.
Buyers can choose from six interior options with names like Atlas, Meteor, Phoenix, Zenith, Polaris, and Solaris. Or order a fully bespoke design if their yacht’s color scheme requires a match. The cabin layout is designed for four to eight passengers, with smart storage systems between seats and built-in cabinets at the front and rear.
Speed from AMG
Beneath the designer finish lies the latest version of Airbus’s five-bladed H145—a twin-engine helicopter with a cruising speed of 137 knots (158 mph or 254 km/h) and a range of 4 hours. Compared to previous models, the new design promises reduced noise levels and an additional 150 kg of useful load capacity.
The helicopter debuted in São Paulo, which is one of the world’s helicopter capitals, but this is not the first collaboration between the companies. The partnership has been ongoing since 2010, and during this time, 26 units of the previous Mercedes-styled ACH145 version have already been delivered.
Only for the Ultra-Wealthy
If you like the idea of a car-helicopter crossover but aren’t a Mercedes fan, ACH has other partnerships—with brands like Aston Martin and designer Harrison Eidsgaard, known for his work on superyachts. But to purchase the ACH145 Mercedes-Benz Edition, you need to possess precisely that kind of wealth. The company does not disclose exact prices, but based on data from previous models, the cost is significantly more than $10 million.
Instagram post from Airbus Corporate Helicopters & Jets (@airbus_corporate_helicopters)
This project illustrates how the boundaries between different segments of luxury goods and services are blurring. The collaboration between aviation and automotive giants creates a product that is not just a vehicle but a symbol of status and mobility for the highest echelon of business. The demand for such exclusive products, despite their astronomical cost, demonstrates the existence of a market where prestige, individuality, and the ability to obtain a unique experience unavailable to most are more important than practicality. The debut in São Paulo is also not accidental—it highlights the global nature of this market, where certain cities become key hubs for showcasing and selling such goods.
