Three New Machines Ordered For 'Utility Missions'

On November 5 in Wuhan, Hubei Province, China, Wuhan Helicopter and Eurocopter China ceremonially signed an order for two AS350 B3e and one EC120 B light single-engine helicopters for use in utility missions.

Senior officials in attendance at the ceremony included Nathalie Kosciusko-Morizet, French Minister for Ecology, Sustainable Development, Transport and Housing, Thierry Mariani, French Minister for Transport, Li Hongzhong, Party Secretary of Hubei Province, Wang Guosheng, Governor of Hubei Province, Ruan Chengfa, Party Secretary of Wuhan City and Tang Liangzhi, Mayor of Wuhan City.

“We are very proud that Wuhan Helicopter has selected two of our most popular light modern helicopters, which reinforces the worldwide recognition of their capabilities,” stated Eurocopter China CEO, Bruno Boulnois. “The versatility and reliability of the EC120 B and AS350 B3 make them the ideal choice for general aviation multi-mission activities in China’s vast and varied terrains, as well as extreme climate conditions.”

About 1,000 AS350 B3 helicopters are in service across 57 countries, and have logged nearly two million flight hours. The AS350 B3e is an enhanced version of the Ecureuil family, introduced earlier this year at the Heli-Expo in Orlando, equipped with a more powerful engine, new-generation FADEC and an engine data recorder. Wuhan Helicopter will be one of the first operators in China to receive the new enhanced model.

The EC120 B is a light aircraft designed for mission flexibility. It can be easily reconfigured for whatever tasks are required. Since 1997, China has produced EC120 airframe structures in Harbin, which are then sent to France for final assembly. To date, over 680 EC120 Bs have been delivered worldwide, and have completed over a million flight hours.

FMI: www.eurocopter.com ; www.eurocopter-china.com