EC120

Eurocopter has delivered three rotorcraft, including two AS350 B3e, which are the evolved members of Eurocopter’s Ecureuil family, as well as an EC120 B, to undisclosed customers in the UK.

The design and customisation activities for these helicopters were executed in the UK, with Eurocopter’s subsidiary, Eurocopter UK, providing its onshore expertise for work ranging from avionics integration to interior design and outfitting, and installation of other customised systems such as radar altimeters and iPads.

The single-engine EC120 B and AS350 B3e rotorcraft offer versatility, affordability, high safety standards and minimum lifecycle costs in the lightweight rotorcraft category, according to the company.

Powered by a Turbomeca Arriel 2D turboshaft engine with new-generation digital FADEC, the AS350 B3e is the latest version of Eurocopter’s seven-seat 2.3t AS350 family.

Featuring an engine data recorder for condition monitoring, the aircraft is designed to perform missions in extreme weather and geographical conditions, with high endurance, extended range and fast cruise speed.

To date, 4,900 Ecureuils have been delivered to approximately 1,600 operators in 98 countries worldwide and have accumulated more than 22 million flight hours.

About 660 EC120 Bs have been delivered worldwide and these aircraft have completed nearly one million flight hours.

Eurocopter UK managing director Markus Steinke said that the company’s ability to offer tailored solutions based on British design, integration, parts manufacturing, flight testing and certification, have resulted in it being the favoured choice for UK customers in the market segment.

"We are proud to continue the expansion of our unique civil helicopter heritage, skills and customer base, and will continue to extend Britain’s civil helicopter hub even more in the future," Steinke added.

A fleet of 314 turbine helicopters – 40% of which is in Britain – is being operated by private and business aviation customers across the UK, which represents the largest market in Europe, and is ranked third globally.

Image: Eurocopter’s EC120 in flight. Photo: Courtesy of Anthony Pecchi / Eurocopter.

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