Airbus Helicopters Vostok delivered another ЕС130 Т2 helicopter to a Russian customer from Novosibirsk; the vehicle is intended for corporate use. RosInstalAvia will operate the aircraft. It is the first ЕС130 Т2 helicopter in Siberian Federal District, press-service of Airbus Helicopters reports.
“New model ЕС130 Т2 may be operated under any climatic and weather conditions. Changes made in the helicopter’s design, aircraft and operating performance, as well as high level of comfort, make this helicopter а great solution to many problems and one of the best ones in its class. Private owners and commercial operators will highly appreciate all the advantages of these vehicles, including fuel efficiency, reliability, field of view and spacious cabin (seating 1 pilot and 6 passengers),” the company added.
EC130 T2 is the member of popular Ecureuil Family of light helicopters. Appearance of EC130 remained the same, at the same time about 70% of the helicopter’s design was modified. Among key changes: more powerful Arriel 2D turboshaft engine and upgraded main gearbox. Moreover, the helicopter was fitted with active antivibration system, upgraded ventilation, air distribution and antifogging system. Internal layout of the cockpit was changed – the floor became absolutely flat (earlier there was an elevation under the rear seats). Pilots will now use a new avionics suite and an instrument panel with improved ergonomics. Now it is easier to carry out maintenance and time between maintenance increased dramatically.
EC130 T2 helicopter was demonstrated in Russia for the first time at HeliRussia exhibition held in May 2013. After that it performed a number of demonstration flights in Russia and Ukraine. For more than two weeks 20 specialists, including pilots, technicians, experts and helicopter lovers have been testing EC130 T2 during flights. The helicopter received only positive feedback and passengers admired the vehicle’s aircraft performance as well as the level of comfort. The helicopter obtained Certificate of the Interstate Aviation Committee (IAC) in October 2013, Airbus Helicopters added.