AIRBUS HELICOPTERS LAUNCHES EC130 T2 IN SOUTH AFRICA By Mark Mansfield Airbus Helicopters has recently introduced the EC130T2, its newest single-engine offering, to the sub-Sahara region. The new rotorcraft has received its South African Civil Aviation Authority (SACAA) type acceptance and made its South African debut following its recent delivery from the factory in Marignane, France to the manufacturer's regional subsidiary, Eurocopter Southern Africa (PTY) Ltd (ESAL), at Grand Central Airport in Midrand. More than 70 percent of the EC130T2's airframe structure has been modified in comparison to its predecessor model, the EC130B4 "The arrival of the EC130T2 comes at a time when operators are looking increasingly to helicopters which can perform a number of jobs and carry them out more cost-efficiently than has been possible using previous generation technology machines in the same size, range, and payload, "explained ESAL CEO, Arnaud Montalvo. Continuing, Montalvo said, "We are confident the market will be impressed by the EC130T2, which combines the largest cabin of any single-engine helicopter with enhanced performance. It is perfect for passenger transportation, including VIP duties, in addition to medical and surveillance missions." The EC130T2's external sound level is well within the strict rules for flights at America's Grand Canyon National Park New and enhanced features include the use of a more powerful Arriel 2D turboshaft engine and upgraded main gearbox; the incorporation of an active vibration control system; improved air ventilation, distribution and demisting systems; a cabin interior structure redesigned with a full flat floor; a cockpit update for improved man-machine interface; new energy-absorbing seats that improve weight and balance for passenger loading; integration of a crashworthy fuel tank; and increased maintenance accessibility for electrical and air conditioning systems. The EC 130 T2is perfect for passenger transportation, including VIP duties, in addition to medical and surveillance missions The combined package gives the aircraft a higher maximum gross takeoff weight (2,500Kg. for internal loads, and 3,050Kg. when external loads are carried) and a cruise speed increase of up to 10 knots. The EC130 T2 has a spacious cabin for a single pilot and up to six passengers and both left and right-hand sliding doors in its standard configuration. The new rotorcraft has received its South African Civil Aviation Authority (SACAA) type acceptance In addition to its raised performance, other features, including simpler maintenance and longer intervals between mandatory inspections (thanks t other proven reliability of its engines and systems), make this a more capable helicopter with much lower operating costs than comparable machines. More than 70 percent of the EC130T2's airframe structure has been modified in comparison to its predecessor model, the EC130B4. The EC130T2's cockpit has been updated for improved man-machine interface Optional features on the EC130T2 are a new-generation air condition system, tinting of the helicopter's wrap-around windshield, and a right-hand sliding passenger door. The air conditioning system includes design optimization for improved performance, effective hot/cold temperature control, and better air distribution. Derived from the system on the Airbus Helicopters' EC175 seven-ton-class helicopter, it uses a simple control box with straightforward operating logic similar to climate control units in automobiles. New and enhanced features include the use of a more powerful Arriel 2D turboshaft engine and upgraded main gearbox At the same time, the EC130T2 remains a good neighbor. Its external sound level is well within the strict rules for flights at America's Grand Canyon National Park - one of the most stringent international benchmarks for tour operators.

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