Seven Launch Customers Order A Whopping Total of 105 Helicopters

Eurocopter has shown off their latest variant in the distinguished EC130 program, dubbed the EC130-T2. Enhancements to comfort, operational performance and versatility provided the foundation for this upgrade program.

The EC130 T2 was revealed during  the 2012 Heli-Expo exhibition in Dallas, Texas, where Eurocopter also announced seven launch customers for the rotary-wing aircraft covering a total of 105 bookings: Maverick Helicopters, Papillon Helicopters, Blue Hawaiian Helicopters, Scandinavian Helicopter Group, Air Commander, Europavia and Enloe FlightCare.

The diversity of operations performed by these clients underscores the EC130 T2’s ability to excel in a broad range of missions – from aerial tourism and utility to emergency medical airlift. “The EC130 T2 is the latest step in Eurocopter’s strategy to expand and evolve our helicopter lineup. The high number of orders is proof that Eurocopter innovation is perfectly aligned with customers’ requirements and the evolution of their operations,” said Eurocopter President & CEO Lutz Bertling. “The EC130 T2 has literally been ‘love at first flight’ for our customers. We are fully committed to begin deliveries of the new EC130 version in 2012.”

While retaining the EC130’s existing external lines, approximately 70 percent of the EC130 T2’s airframe structure has been modified. New and updated features on the helicopter include the use of a more powerful Arriel 2D turboshaft engine and upgraded main gearbox; the incorporation of an active vibration control system; improved air ventilation, distribution and demisting systems; a cabin interior structure redesign with a full flat floor; a cockpit update for enhanced man-machine interface; new energy-absorbing seats that improve weight and balance for passenger loading; integration of a crashworthy fuel tank; and increased maintenance accessibility for electrical and air conditioning systems.

The EC130 T2’s increased performance is provided by its Turbomeca Arriel 2D engine, which provides 10 percent more average power than the EC130’s current powerplant with lower specific fuel consumption. Based on the proven Arriel 2 engine family, the Arriel 2D benefits from such technology advancements as a new axial compressor and new blade materials, and also provides a higher time between overhaul (TBO) intervals. The Arriel 2D is used at its full power rating of 952 shp. on the EC130 T2, and is the same engine that equips Eurocopter’s evolved AS350 B3e helicopter in a de-rated version.

Performance improvements for the EC130 T2 include a higher maximum gross takeoff weight (2,500 kg. for internal loads and 3,050 kg. when external loads are carried) and a speed increase of up to 10 kts. Even with these enhancements, the EC130 T2’s external sound level remains within the rules for flights at America’s Grand Canyon National Park – an important factor for tour operators.

Optional features on the EC130 T2 are a new-generation air conditioning unit, tinting of the helicopter’s wrap-around windshield, and a right-hand sliding passenger door. The air conditioning system includes design optimization for improved performance, effective hot/cold temperature control, and better air distribution. Derived from the system on Eurocopter’s EC175 seven-ton-class helicopter, it uses a simple control box with straightforward operating logic similar to climate control units on automobiles.

Future development for the EC130 T2 includes the integration of a new glass cockpit design utilizing dual-screen electronic flight displays matched to a Garmin GPS/NAV/COMM receiver (currently GNS series to be expanded to GTN series). This advanced glass cockpit solution will be available as well for the AS350 B3e helicopter and will be developed through the American Eurocopter subsidiary in the United States and installed with a supplemental type certificate (STC). 

Also planned for future development on the EC130 T2 is a 1,500 kg. cargo swing for an aerial work/utility configuration, and the availability of Eurocopter’s Stylence interior – which merges ergonomics and advanced technology in a refined cabin finishing that offers the environment of a fully-equipped in-flight office for business executives and companies.

The no. 1 EC130 T2 has logged 90 flight hours since its first flight in 2011, demonstrating excellent maturity of the new configuration for a certification scheduled this summer. Final assembly of the initial series production aircraft began last December at Eurocopter’s Marignane, France facility. By the second half of 2012, production will transition completely to the EC130 T2 version.

To date, Eurocopter has sold a total of more than 400 EC130s in its various versions.

FMI: www.eurocopter.com