Eurocopter EC 130 B4 – 2005

Description

Eurocopter EC 130 B4 – 2005

• TTSN: 1680
• Dual Controls
• Air Conditioning
• Inlet Barrier Filter
• Flotation Gear
• Ground Handling Wheels
• Engine washing device
• VEMD with fuel flow
• 7 x Bose ANR headsets
• Comm Garmin GNS 430
• Comm and Nav KX165A
• Garmin GTX 330 Transponder
• Kannad ELT 406
• Thales Horizon with slip skid indicator
• Garmin GMA340H audio panel
• Radio Altimeter Thales
• AHV16HSI K1525A
• Gyro Directional KCS55A

History

During the 1980’s, there was interest within Aerospatiale… to further develop their successful AS350 B3 rotor-craft. This type was originally developed in the early 1970’s. On 6 February 1987, a prototype AS350 Z… a modified model of AS350 B2… conducted its first flight with a fenestron tail-rotor fitted. The AS350 Z test program stretched across several years. The aircraft received additional modifications such as a new air intake… based on the Eurocopter EC120. The AS350 Z contributed to the overall development of the fenestron tail rotor.

In the early 1990’s, development of the new rotor-craft continued under Eurocopter. On 24 June 1999, the first prototype EC130 performed its first flight. The EC130 B4 was the initial launch model of the type and the upgrade variant being EC130 T2.  Launched and produced by the Eurocopter Group and later re-branded as Airbus Helicopters. The principal aim of the EC130 is not only for commercial passenger transportation…  but also for aerial tour companies.

Design

The Eurocopter EC130 is a single engine light utility helicopter. The EC130 uses the Turbomeca Arriel 2B2 Turbine Engine. Furthermore it features new avionics and safety attributes. Moreover changes included are, flight data recorders and crash-worthy seats. Additional features are redundant flight systems for greater reliability. Further changes from the preceding AS350 included… the adoption of a dual-hydraulic system. A wider main body provides for a cabin with greater internal space. Furthermore… a primary change is a Fenestron anti-torque device, replacing a conventional tail rotor.

Eurocopter EC 130 B4 – 2005

The Eurocopter EC130 B4 was designed in close cooperation with tour operators. Described as having a spacious cabin thus accommodating up to seven tourists. This in turn also provides excellent external visibility. The EC130 also has the largest cabin of any single engine helicopter in its class.