Rotorcraft
Eurocopter's Upgraded Models Coming Soon
Eurocopter is upgrading most of its product range, with the goal of providing improved performance and reduced costs.
The EC145T2 will feature not only a “fenestron” shrouded tailrotor and Fadec-controlled engines but also a new avionics suite, including a high-end autopilot. Certification is expected next year.
The EC145T2 will feature not only a “fenestron” shrouded tailrotor and Fadec-controlled engines but also a new avionics suite, including a high-end autopilot. Certification is expected next year.

Eurocopter is upgrading most of its product range, with the goal of providing improved performance and reduced costs. The manufacturer is reporting progress on the developments of the AS350B3e Ecureuil (AStar), EC135T2e/P2e, EC145T2, AS365N3e and Super Puma L1e/C1e. All were announced at Heli-Expo 2011 in February.

The AS350B3e, the latest version of the venerable light single, was certified in June, Eurocopter reported late this summer. The helicopter has a 950-shp Turbomeca Arriel 2D in place of the 848-shp Arriel 2C1 engine of its predecessor. The Arriel 2D features a new axial compressor, new blade material and a dual-channel Fadec. It is said to provide better performance for lower fuel consumption.