Eurocopter has unveiled its new EC130 T2 with optimised performance, comfort and mission diversity

Eurocopter has unveiled its newest helicopter, the EC130 T2, which features enhanced comfort, improved operational performance and increased versatility for the company’s lightweight single-engine product line.

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

While retaining the EC130’s existing external lines, approximately 70 per cent of the EC130 T2’s airframe structure has been modified. The 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 energyabsorbing 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 per cent more average power than the EC130’s current power plant 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.