Eurocopter has commenced a demonstration visit to Australia of its EC130T2, prior to delivery to its new owner and launch customer.
The single-engine helicopter is an advancement on the EC130B4, with more than 70 per cent of the airframe modified from the existing B4 model. The T2 features a more powerful Arriel 2D turboshaft engine and upgraded main gearbox, an active vibration control system and improved air ventilation.
Other enhancements include a complete redesign of the cabin interior structure to provide a fully flat floor, an updated cockpit to enhance the aircraft-pilot interface, new energy-absorbing seats to improve weight and balance for passenger loading, a crashworthy fuel tank and increased maintenance accessibility for electrical and air-conditioning systems.
This package of improvements provides the T2 with a performance boost, including a higher maximum gross takeoff weight of 2,500 kg for internal loads and 3,050 kg for slung cargo.
The first EC130T2 to arrive in Australia, it was air-freighted from Europe and assembled in Queensland for delivery to its launch customer.
