About the EUROCOPTER AS 350 B2
The Eurocopter AS350 B2, also known as the AStar in North America, is a single-engine light utility helicopter that has made significant contributions to general aviation since its inception. The AS350 series was developed by the French company Aérospatiale and introduced in the late 1970s. Following a merger, the design and manufacturing have been continued by Eurocopter, which is now part of Airbus Helicopters. The B2 variant, in particular, has become one of the most popular and versatile helicopters in the AS350 family. It first flew in 1986 and has seen widespread adoption in various sectors, including law enforcement, emergency medical services (EMS), corporate transport, and aerial work such as lifting and surveying. One of the key motivations for producing the AS350 B2 was the need for a high-performance, economical, and reliable aircraft that could operate in diverse environments, from urban areas to high-altitude conditions. The AS350 B2 is powered by a Turbomeca Arriel 1D1 turboshaft engine, providing it with excellent power-to-weight ratio and allowing it to perform well in hot and high conditions where other helicopters might struggle. It is capable of carrying up to six passengers along with the pilot, making it suitable for a variety of missions. The versatility of the AS350 B2 extends to its impressive lifting capabilities; it can external lift loads of up to 2,557 pounds. Its design emphasizes simplicity and ease of maintenance, which translates to lower operational costs, an essential feature for operators. The aircraft's rugged design also makes it particularly durable and reliable, ensuring high availability rates. In terms of innovations, the AS350 B2 features a unique Starflex main rotor system and Fenestron tail rotor, which help reduce vibration and noise, enhancing passenger comfort and operational efficiency. Its enduring appeal is evidenced by its widespread usage and the continued production of the AS350 series, which remains a popular choice for various mission profiles around the globe.