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Germany suspends NH-90 flights

Germany has grounded its fleet of NHI NH-90 helicopters following discovery of a design flaw in its electrical system.

Germany has grounded its fleet of NHI NH-90 helicopters following discovery of a design flaw in its electrical system.

The flaw was discovered during investigations into the June engine mishap involving a German NH-90 in Uzbekistan.

The helicopter was forced to make an emergency landing following an engine failure and subsequent loss of multiple electrical systems.

German defense ministry says the flaw can cause a electrical short circuit while operating the onboard emergency fire extinguishing system.

Airbus Helicopter however insists the helicopter is safe for flying and wants to lift the grounding.

NHI is a consortium of Airbus Helicopters, AgustaWestland and Fokker. Germany currently has a fleet of 37 NH-90s and have 26 more on order.

The 10.6 tonne helicopter is used for transporting troops and heavy cargo.