About the AEROSPATIALE AS350BA
The Aérospatiale AS350BA, popularly known as the Écureuil or “Squirrel,” is a versatile, single-engine light helicopter developed by the French Aérospatiale corporation, which later became part of Airbus Helicopters. The AS350 series first took flight in June 1974, with the AS350BA variant being introduced in the early 1980s as part of a continuous improvement program aimed at enhancing the performance and utility of the original design. The BA model distinguished itself with an upgraded Lycoming LTS101-600A-3A engine and a strengthened transmission system. These upgrades allowed it to carve a niche in various sectors such as law enforcement, emergency medical services (EMS), firefighting, and corporate transportation.
Production of the AS350BA continued for several years, bolstered by its robust performance and exceptional versatility. The helicopter's design allowed it to perform exceptionally well at high altitudes and in hot weather conditions, a characteristic highly valued in difficult environments. Besides, the AS350BA's impressive lift capacity and cruise speed of around 155 mph made it a favorite among operators in mountainous regions.
Key Features and Capabilities
One of the primary motivations for the production of the AS350BA was to create a reliable, cost-effective solution for a wide array of missions. Its simplified maintenance procedures and readily available parts made it a cost-efficient option compared to its competitors. The helicopter also benefited from Aérospatiale's focus on safety, featuring crashworthy fuel systems and enhanced impact resistance.
The AS350BA serves its niche well by combining affordability, performance, and adaptability. Over time, it has become especially popular in North America, Australia, and parts of Europe, where its ability to execute a wide range of missions proficiently is highly valued. The success of the AS350BA showcases Aérospatiale's commitment to producing versatile, robust, and reliable helicopters, and it remains a significant model within the family of Écureuil helicopters.