Eurocopter EC120 Colibri

{{Use dmy dates|date=September 2019}}

{{short description|Utility helicopter}}

{{Infobox aircraft

|name= EC120 Colibri
HC120

|image= File:Eurocopter EC-120B Colibri AN0367366.jpg

|caption= EC120B

|type= Light utility helicopter

|national_origin= Multinational

|manufacturer= Eurocopter
Airbus Helicopters
Harbin Aircraft Industry Group

|designer=

|first_flight= 9 June 1995

|introduction= 1998

|retired=

|status= Out of production

|primary_user=

|more_users=

|produced= 1995–2017

|number_built= ~700 (2015){{cite web |title=H120 - Airbus Helicopters |url=http://www.helicopters.airbus.com/website/en/ref/H120_430.html |website=www.helicopters.airbus.com |access-date=25 July 2018 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180725153340/http://www.helicopters.airbus.com/website/en/ref/H120_430.html |archive-date=25 July 2018 |url-status=live }}

|unit cost= US$795,000 (June 1999)
~US$2M, €1.5M (August 2013)Mark Huber and Thierry Dubois. [http://www.ainonline.com/aviation-news/aviation-international-news/2013-08-03/bell-reveals-more-short-light-single "Bell Reveals more on ‘short light single’"] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140904083701/http://www.ainonline.com/aviation-news/aviation-international-news/2013-08-03/bell-reveals-more-short-light-single |date=4 September 2014 }}. AIN online, 3 August 2013. Accessed: 11 December 2013.

|developed_from=

|variants=

}}

The Eurocopter, later Airbus Helicopters EC120 Colibri ("hummingbird") is a five-seat, single-engine, light utility helicopter. Jointly designed and developed by Eurocopter, China National Aero-Technology Import & Export Corporation (CATIC), Harbin Aviation Industries (Group) Ltd (HAIG) and Singapore Technologies Aerospace Ltd (STAero) at Eurocopter France's Marignane facility, the EC120B was assembled by Eurocopter in France and Australia.{{cite web|title=EC120 Assembly Line|url=http://www.ausaero.com.au/CivilHelicopters/EC120BAssyLine/tabid/207/Default.aspx|website=Australian Aerospace|access-date=17 June 2017|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20070822002711/http://www.ausaero.com.au/CivilHelicopters/EC120BAssyLine/tabid/207/Default.aspx|archive-date=22 August 2007}}

In China, the aircraft is produced by Harbin Aircraft Manufacturing Corporation (HAMC) as the HC120.{{cite web|title=HC120 [EC-120] Helicopter|url=http://www.globalsecurity.org/military/world/china/hc-120.htm|website=Global Security.org|access-date=17 June 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170721090612/http://www.globalsecurity.org/military/world/china/hc-120.htm|archive-date=21 July 2017|url-status=live}} In 2004, HAMC began local manufacturing of the HC120 at their assembly line in Harbin, in northern China. In the Chinese market, both the People's Liberation Army and multiple local police forces have purchased HC120 helicopters.{{cite web|title=HC-120 Helicopters built in Harbin China|url=http://www.airforceworld.com/pla/ec120-helicopter-china.htm|website=Air Force World (in Chinese)|publisher=Air Force World|access-date=17 June 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160303221538/http://www.airforceworld.com/pla/ec120-helicopter-china.htm|archive-date=3 March 2016|url-status=dead}}

Development

The EC120 Colibri has its origins in the P120, a proposal by French helicopter manufacturer Aérospatiale that was intended to replace both their Aérospatiale Gazelle and Aérospatiale SA 315B Lama single engine helicopters. During the 1980s, Aérospatiale sought international partners with which to co-produce the P120, these included aerospace companies in China, Singapore, and Australia.[https://www.flightglobal.com/FlightPDFArchive/1989/1989%20-%203662.PDF "Australia pulls out of Aerospatiale P120."] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20151208081026/https://www.flightglobal.com/FlightPDFArchive/1989/1989%20-%203662.PDF |date=8 December 2015 }} Flight International, 5 December 1989.[https://web.archive.org/web/20160220121728/https://www.highbeam.com/doc/1G1-10949159.html "Aerospatiale to build light helicopters with China and Singapore. (P-120 helicopter)."] Defense Daily, 3 July 1991. In the aftermath of the Chinese Government's crackdown on the Tiananmen Square protests of 1989, the exclusion of Chinese involvement in the project was speculated.[https://www.flightglobal.com/pdfarchive/view/1989/1989%20-%202113.html "Aerospatiale venture faces China crisis."] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20151208064201/https://www.flightglobal.com/pdfarchive/view/1989/1989%20-%202113.html |date=8 December 2015 }} Flight International, 8 July 1989.

On 20 October 1992, a contract for the joint development contract of the new helicopter was signed by the three principle partners of the project, the newly formed Eurocopter, China National Aero-Technology Import & Export Corporation (CATIC) and Singapore Aerospace Ltd (STAero). Under the joint development agreement, Eurocopter received a 61% controlling interest and technical leader in the programme, CATIC received a 24% work share and STAero received a 15% work share; CATIC designed and produced the cabin structure and fuel system, STAero produced the tail boom, access doors, and composite materials, while Eurocopter produced the dynamic assemblies, installed the avionics, electrical and hydraulic systems, and conducted the final assembly activity.Grey, Peter. [https://www.flightglobal.com/news/articles/light-flier-37102/ "Light flier."] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20151208064203/https://www.flightglobal.com/news/articles/light-flier-37102/ |date=8 December 2015 }} Flight International, 13 May 1998. Development of the rotorcraft allowed Eurocopter to extend its range to include {{convert|1.5|t|ST|adj=on|lk=on}} rotorcraft.

File:Eurocopter EC-120B Colibri (D-HEHA) 03.jpg

On 9 June 1995, the first prototype EC120 Colibri conducted its maiden flight.[https://www.airbushelicopters.com/website/en/ref/History_153.html "History: From Eurocopter to Airbus Helicopters."] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150926154602/http://www.airbushelicopters.com/website/en/ref/History_153.html |date=26 September 2015 }} Airbus Helicopters, Retrieved: 29 November 2015. By February 1996, the prototype had accumulated 60 flight hours, a second prototype joined the test program later that year.[https://www.flightglobal.com/news/articles/ec120-testing-reaches-60h-20899/ "EC120 testing reaches 60h."] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20151208065434/https://www.flightglobal.com/news/articles/ec120-testing-reaches-60h-20899/ |date=8 December 2015 }} Flight International, 14 February 1996. In February 1997, the EC120 Colibri was formally launched at the Helicopter Association International (HAI) show in Anaheim, California; by June 1997, more than 50 orders had been received for the type.[https://www.flightglobal.com/news/articles/helicopters-on-the-rise-2886/ "Helicopters on the rise."] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20151208065919/https://www.flightglobal.com/news/articles/helicopters-on-the-rise-2886/ |date=8 December 2015 }} Flight International, 14 May 1997.[https://www.flightglobal.com/news/articles/eurocopter-wins-dauphin-orders-5563/ "Eurocopter wins Dauphin orders."] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20151208060145/https://www.flightglobal.com/news/articles/eurocopter-wins-dauphin-orders-5563/ |date=8 December 2015 }} Flight International, 25 June 1997. By October 1998, more than 100 orders had been received for the type, leading Eurocopter to increase the production rate from four helicopters per month to six.Moxon, Julian. [https://www.flightglobal.com/news/articles/growing-demand-for-colibri-prompts-production-incr-44078/ "'Growing demand' for Colibri prompts production increase."] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20151208075104/https://www.flightglobal.com/news/articles/growing-demand-for-colibri-prompts-production-incr-44078/ |date=8 December 2015 }} Flight International, 21 October 1998. In 2002, Eurocopter was in the process of establishing a second assembly line for the EC120 at Australian Aerospace's facility in Brisbane, Australia.[http://www.airbusgroup.com/int/en/news-media/press-releases/Airbus-Group/Financial_Communication/2002/07/en_20020705_australia_e.html "Australian Prime Minister Inspects Eurocopter Helicopters during his State Visit to Germany."] {{webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20151208130123/http://www.airbusgroup.com/int/en/news-media/press-releases/Airbus-Group/Financial_Communication/2002/07/en_20020705_australia_e.html |date=8 December 2015 }} Airbus Helicopters, 4 July 2002.

In September 2003, Eurocopter and China Aviation Industry Corporation II (AVIC II) expanded their partnership agreement to include a co-production arrangement with AVIC II-subsidiary Harbin Aircraft Industry Group (HAIG).Sobie, Brendan. [https://www.flightglobal.com/news/articles/eurocopter-expands-chinese-deal-with-ec120-171488/ "Eurocopter expands Chinese deal with EC120."] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20151208074224/https://www.flightglobal.com/news/articles/eurocopter-expands-chinese-deal-with-ec120-171488/ |date=8 December 2015 }} Flight International, 23 September 2003. On 11 June 2004, a final production agreement was signed; under the agreement, CATIA and HAIG received exclusive market rights in China, and Eurocopter agreed to stop selling French-built EC120s in mainland China.Sobie, Brendan. [https://www.flightglobal.com/news/articles/chinese-army-ready-to-launch-hc120-after-production-183207/ "Chinese army ready to launch HC120 after production deal."] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20151208081712/https://www.flightglobal.com/news/articles/chinese-army-ready-to-launch-hc120-after-production-183207/ |date=8 December 2015 }} Flight International, 22 June 2014. In June 2014, the People's Liberation Army of China became the launch customer for the Harbin-produced HC120, reportedly placing an order for eight of the type with options for fifty more.

On 30 November 2017 Airbus Helicopters formally announced the end of the H120 program citing low delivery numbers. Only five H120s were delivered in 2016 compared to 63 Robinson R-66s. Airbus stated they are moving away from the lower end of the market spectrum and those helicopters are not as sophisticated as their traditional product line.{{cite web|url=https://www.verticalmag.com/news/airbus-helicopters-terminates-h120-program/|title=Airbus Helicopters terminates H120 program - Vertical Magazine|website=VerticalMag.com|date=30 November 2017 |access-date=4 December 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20171204171229/https://www.verticalmag.com/news/airbus-helicopters-terminates-h120-program/|archive-date=4 December 2017|url-status=live}}

= Diesel demonstrator =

File:Paris Air Show 2017 mecachrome AE440 front.jpg

Within the Green Rotorcraft European Clean Sky Joint Technology Initiative environmental research program started in 2011, a H120 Technology demonstrator equipped with a HIPE AE440 high-compression aircraft diesel engine, running on jet fuel, first flew on 6 November 2015. It aimed to reduce pollutant emissions and increase fuel efficiency, nearly double the range and enhance operations in hot and high conditions.{{cite press release |url= https://www.airbushelicopters.com/website/en/press/Airbus-Helicopters-starts-flight-tests-with-high-compression-engine-for-cleaner,-more-efficient-and-higher-performance-rotorcraft_1859.html |title= Airbus Helicopters starts flight tests with high-compression piston engine |publisher= Airbus Helicopter |date= 10 November 2015|archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20170320194343/http://www.airbushelicopters.com/website/en/press/Airbus-Helicopters-starts-flight-tests-with-high-compression-engine-for-cleaner,-more-efficient-and-higher-performance-rotorcraft_1859.html |archive-date= 20 March 2017 |url-status= live |df= dmy-all }}

The powerplant trialed was a liquid-cooled, dry sump lubricated 4.6-liter 90° V8 engine with an {{convert|1800|bar|psi|adj=on}} common rail direct injection, fully machined aluminum blocks, titanium connecting rods, steel pistons and liners, one turbocharger per cylinder bank. With an air-to-air intercooler, it weighed {{convert|197|kg}} without gearbox and the {{convert|330|kW|hp|abbr=on}} installed powerpack weighs {{convert|249|kg}}.{{cite web |url= http://cordis.europa.eu/result/rcn/177069_en.html |title= Final Report Summary – HIPE AE 440 (Diesel Powerpack for a Light Helicopter Demonstrator) |work= CORDIS |publisher= European Commission |date= 19 February 2016 |access-date= 1 March 2017 |archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20170302030735/http://cordis.europa.eu/result/rcn/177069_en.html |archive-date= 2 March 2017 |url-status= live |df= dmy-all }} The rotors were driven via the existing transmission, the faster-turning Turbomeca Arrius turboshaft was replaced with a multiplier gearbox.{{cite news |author= Graham Warwick |url= http://aviationweek.com/business-aviation/clean-sky-prepares-helo-diesel-flight-tests |title= Clean Sky Prepares For Helo Diesel Flight Tests |date= 20 March 2015 |work= Aviation Week |access-date= 30 October 2015 |archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20151126064846/http://aviationweek.com/business-aviation/clean-sky-prepares-helo-diesel-flight-tests |archive-date= 26 November 2015 |url-status= live |df= dmy-all }}

The brake specific fuel consumption was 200 g/kW⋅h.{{cite web |url= http://www.teos-engineering.com/experience/jet-a1-aircraft-engine/ |title= Jet A-1 Aircraft Engine |publisher= Teos Powertrain Engineering |access-date= 1 March 2017 |archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20170302025727/http://www.teos-engineering.com/experience/jet-a1-aircraft-engine/ |archive-date= 2 March 2017 |url-status= live |df= dmy-all }} Torque oscillations were reduced through a light torsional shaft and vibrations are damped by Silent blocs.{{cite web |author= Alexandre Gierczynski |url= http://www.aerodays2015.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/20/2G-Alexandre-Gierczynski.pdf |title= Light Helicopter Demonstrator with HCE |publisher= Airbus |date= 20 October 2015 |url-status= dead |archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20151126041340/http://www.aerodays2015.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/20/2G-Alexandre-Gierczynski.pdf |archive-date= 26 November 2015 |df= dmy-all }} It was manufactured by Teos Powertrain Engineering—a joint venture between Mecachrome and D2T (IFPEN group)—for the mechanical design, engine main parts manufacturing, assembly and testing and Austro Engine for the dual-channel FADEC and harness, fuel system, airworthiness. Power was maintained at 2,500 m and ISA+20° and it achieved 42% a fuel consumption reduction, reducing the direct operating costs by 30% along with simpler maintenance.{{cite news |url= https://www.flightglobal.com/news/articles/analysis-airbus-helicopters-powers-a-piston-revolut-434221/ |title= Airbus Helicopters powers a piston revolution for light singles |date= 1 March 2017 |work= Flight Global |access-date= 1 March 2017 |archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20170301151321/https://www.flightglobal.com/news/articles/analysis-airbus-helicopters-powers-a-piston-revolut-434221/ |archive-date= 1 March 2017 |url-status= live |df= dmy-all }}

Design

File:Eurocopter EC-120B Colibri AN1535581.jpg

The EC120B Colibri is a single-engine multimission helicopter, designed for safe, simple, and cost-effective operations. It incorporates several of Eurocopter's trademarked technologies, those of prominence are the three-bladed Speriflex main rotor head and the eight-bladed fenestron anti-torque tail rotor;[https://www.flightglobal.com/pdfarchive/view/1990/1990%20-%200541.html "P.120 Programme take shape."] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20151208051621/https://www.flightglobal.com/pdfarchive/view/1990/1990%20-%200541.html |date=8 December 2015 }} Flight International, 6 March 1990. these have been partially credited with contributing to the rotorcraft's noise signature, which is 6.7 decibels below International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) limits.[http://www.airbushelicopters.com/website/docs_wsw/RUB_26/tile_2581/EC120_B-BR-0114E.pdf "EC120 B: Everything you need in One Handy Little Package."] {{webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150911201359/http://www.airbushelicopters.com/website/docs_wsw/RUB_26/tile_2581/EC120_B-BR-0114E.pdf |date=11 September 2015 }} Airbus Helicopters, 2014.

Airbus Helicopters has claimed that the EC120 B possesses the lowest operating cost in its class. As of 2014, the EC120 has the distinction of being the only single-engine rotorcraft to be certified to JAR/FAR 27 standards; measures incorporated to meet these standards include an energy-attenuating main structure, energy-absorbent seats for all on board, and a crash-resistant fuel system.

The aircraft features a wide, ergonomic cabin with high levels of external visibility, which can accommodate a single pilot along with four passengers in typical passenger configuration. The design of the cabin is suitable for a wide variety of civilian and parapublic missions, such as utility transport, offshore transport, training, law enforcement, casualty evacuation and corporate transport. In the casualty evacuation role, the rotorcraft can carry one pilot and one stretcher patient as well as one or two medical attendants.

In a cargo-carrying capacity, the EC120 can carry one pilot plus {{convert|2.94|m3|abbr=on}} of total useful load volume spread between the cabin and the {{convert|0.8|m3|abbr=on}} hold, which is externally accessible from the right-hand side and to the rear, as well as from the cabin in some configurations. To ease cargo operations, the cabin floor is flat and unobstructed; alternatively, a cargo sling can be installed to carry cargo of up to {{convert|700|kg|sigfig=3|abbr=on}}.

File:N175SC tail (EC120).jpg

According to Airbus Helicopters, the EC120B integrates a high level of advanced technology to make the rotorcraft easier and safer to fly, as well as to reduce costs. A particular emphasis was placed on allowing end-customers to perform as much of the maintenance tasks themselves. The primary instrument panel is the twin-screen vehicle and engine multifunction display (VEMD) which provides control and monitoring of various aspects of the rotorcraft, such as the fenestron tail rotor and key engine parameters; the VEMD decreases overall pilot workload for greater safety. In a baseline configuration, flight controls are installed only on the right-hand side, dual controls or left-hand only flight controls can be optionally installed.[http://www.airbushelicopters.com/website/docs_wsw/RUB_26/tile_2581/120_B_15.100.pdf "EC120 B: Technical Data 2015."] {{webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150911201313/http://www.airbushelicopters.com/website/docs_wsw/RUB_26/tile_2581/120_B_15.100.pdf |date=11 September 2015 }} Airbus Helicopters, 2015. Third parties have offered their own avionics suites for the EC120, adding functionality such as an autopilot.[https://www.flightglobal.com/news/articles/regourd-offers-advanced-suite-in-entry-level-ec120-colibri-204444/ "Regourd offers advanced suite in entry-level EC120 Colibri."] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20151208050311/https://www.flightglobal.com/news/articles/regourd-offers-advanced-suite-in-entry-level-ec120-colibri-204444/ |date=8 December 2015 }} Flight International, 31 January 2006.Learmount, David. [https://www.flightglobal.com/news/articles/light-helicopters-set-for-autopilots-209998/ "Light helicopters set for autopilots."] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20151208062835/https://www.flightglobal.com/news/articles/light-helicopters-set-for-autopilots-209998/ |date=8 December 2015 }} Flight International, 17 October 2006.

In addition to various civil roles, the EC120 has also been used by several military operators to conduct training, observation and light utility missions. Airbus Helicopter has promoted the type in a training capacity due to features such as positive control response, performance computation systems, modern instrumentation for ease of use, overall compact size, and a high level of cabin visibility.

A wide range of optional equipment can be installed upon the EC120 B, this includes a wire strike protection system, air conditioning, sand filter, skis, windshield wipers, electrical external mirrors, a cargo sling, emergency flotation gear, forward looking infrared (FLIR) cameras, and external spotlights. For corporate customers, the EC120 can be equipped with a Stylence interior, offering a luxurious interior with leather upholstery, in-flight office and telecommunications facilities, along with reduced noise and vibration levels via additional insulation.Peaford, Alan. [https://www.flightglobal.com/news/articles/ebace-eurocopter-keen-to-demonstrate-value-of-helic-371758/ "EBACE: Eurocopter keen to demonstrate value of helicopter role."] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20151208075056/https://www.flightglobal.com/news/articles/ebace-eurocopter-keen-to-demonstrate-value-of-helic-371758/ |date=8 December 2015 }} Flight International, 15 May 2012.

Operational history

{{External media|topic= |width=20% |float=right |video1=[http://www.dailymotion.com/video/x2uncxz In-cockpit view of EC120 B startup sequence] |video2=[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jRf9N69HsRg Spanish EC120 display at NATO Days 2013 Ostrava] |video3=}}

The first EC120B was delivered in 1998. By 2008, Eurocopter had already delivered more than 550 Colibris to various customers.

In 2004, the United States Department of Homeland Security U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) selected the EC120B to meet its Light Sign Cutter requirement, a program potentially involving 55 aircraft with a total value of US$75 million in then-year dollars.[http://www.defenseindustrydaily.com/codeveloped-in-china-us-homeland-security-orders-ec120-helis-01956/ "Co-developed in China: US Homeland Security Orders EC120 Helis."] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20151221215845/http://www.defenseindustrydaily.com/codeveloped-in-china-us-homeland-security-orders-ec120-helis-01956/ |date=21 December 2015 }} Defense Industry Daily, 1 March 2006. In 2006, the CBP ordered 15 EC120B helicopters, with a further five aircraft since ordered.{{cite web|url=http://www.eurocopterusa.com/Media/News/NewsDetail.asp?ID=537|title=American Eurocopter|website=EurocopterUSA.com|access-date=4 December 2017|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20080802162824/http://www.eurocopterusa.com/Media/News/NewsDetail.asp?ID=537|archive-date=2 August 2008}}

The Spanish Air and Space Force (SASF) has procured a number of EC120s, which are used as rotary-wing trainers at the Armilla AFB. In 2003, the SPAF formed an aerobatic display team, the Patrulla ASPA, which use the type; a typical display involves five EC120s performing complex manoeuvers in addition to formation flight.[http://patrullaaspa.defensa.gob.es/Presentacion/Historia/index.html "Inicios de la Patrulla ASPA."] {{webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20151208100601/http://patrullaaspa.defensa.gob.es/Presentacion/Historia/index.html |date=8 December 2015 }} patrullaaspa.defensa.gob.es, Retrieved: 29 November 2015.López, Luis Javier. [http://sevilla.abc.es/andalucia/granada/20140518/sevi-patrulla-aspa-ejercito-aire-201405171751.html "La patrulla ASPA del Ejército del Aire celebra sus diez años en Granada."] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20151208161329/http://sevilla.abc.es/andalucia/granada/20140518/sevi-patrulla-aspa-ejercito-aire-201405171751.html |date=8 December 2015 }} sevilla.abc.es, 18 May 2014.

In January 2008, the French Defense Ministry selected the EC120 as the French Army's new lead-in rotary-wing trainer to replace the Aérospatiale Gazelle. 36 EC120 Bs equipped with Sagem avionics shall be operated through a 22-year public-private partnership (PPP) with operator Hélidax.[http://www.defense.gouv.fr/defense_uk/breves/premier_partenariat_public_prive_pour_la_defense "Premier partenariat public prive pour la defense."] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20080318135257/http://www.defense.gouv.fr/defense_uk/breves/premier_partenariat_public_prive_pour_la_defense |date=18 March 2008 }} French Ministry of Defense. On 12 October 2010, the final EC120 was delivered to Hélidax.Parsons, Gary. [http://www.aircraftmagazine.co.uk/view_article.asp?ID=2573&pubID=3,1&t=1&s=0&p=36&i=10 "News: Last EC120 for French training delivered."] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20151208081918/http://www.aircraftmagazine.co.uk/view_article.asp?ID=2573&pubID=3,1&t=1&s=0&p=36&i=10 |date=8 December 2015 }} Aircraft Magazine, 12 October 2010.

Since 2011, a number of EC120s have been operated by the traffic police of Kurdistan, Iraq.[http://www.aknews.com/en/aknews/3/278818/ "Kurdistan's traffic police to have helicopters."] {{webarchive |url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120718145308/http://www.aknews.com/en/aknews/3/278818/ |date=18 July 2012 }} AKNews, 17 December 2011. As of 2014, the crews are trained to undertake surveillance and rescue missions.Bender, Jeremy. [http://www.businessinsider.sg/peshmerga-military-equipment-2014-6/9/#.VluV-MsnyUk "As The Kurds Mobilize In Iraq, Here’s A Look At What They Have In Their Arsenal."] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20151208064115/http://www.businessinsider.sg/peshmerga-military-equipment-2014-6/9/#.VluV-MsnyUk |date=8 December 2015 }} Business Insider, 30 June 2014.

Variants

P120L prototype before type redesignation to EC120 Colibri.

  • {{visible anchor|EC120B Colibri}}: Standard designation.
  • HC120: Chinese-built variant of the EC120.

Operators

=Civil operators=

File:Sbsd-ec130-N621SB-vcv-041202-03-16.jpg]]

File:SE-JJF Airbus EC 120B Colibri helicopter operated by Fiskflyg in Sarek National Park (DSCF1087).jpg]]

The EC120 is used by both private individuals and companies, helicopter charter and training organisations as well as law enforcement and government use.

;{{flag|Australia}}

  • Westpac Life Saver Rescue Helicopter Service{{cite web|url=http://www.lifesavingvictoria.com.au/www/html/1404-westpac-lifesaver-rescue-helicopters.asp |title=Life Saving Victoria - Westpac Lifesaver Rescue Helicopters |access-date=25 November 2011 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20111109020433/http://www.lifesavingvictoria.com.au/www/html/1404-westpac-lifesaver-rescue-helicopters.asp |archive-date=9 November 2011 }}

;{{BRA}}

  • Federal Highway Police{{cite web|url=http://resgatedoa-brasil.blogspot.com.br/2011/01/ec-120b-colibri-mato-grosso-do-sul.html|title=EC-120B Colibri – Mato Grosso do Sul|author=Jeferson Espindola|access-date=23 April 2013|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160304040223/http://resgatedoa-brasil.blogspot.com.br/2011/01/ec-120b-colibri-mato-grosso-do-sul.html|archive-date=4 March 2016|url-status=live}}

;{{flag|Canada}}

  • Calgary Police Service{{cite web|title=HAWCS: Calgary's Eye in the Sky|url=http://www.helicoptersmagazine.com/content/view/91/38/|publisher=Helicopters Magazine|access-date=1 April 2013|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140305051045/http://www.helicoptersmagazine.com/content/view/91/38|archive-date=5 March 2014|url-status=dead}}
  • Royal Canadian Mounted Police{{cite web| title =Reshaping Canada's Parapublic Service| url =http://www.eurocopter.com/w1/jrotor/69/ec120b.html| access-date =1 March 2013| url-status =dead| archive-url =https://web.archive.org/web/20090726093258/http://www.eurocopter.com/w1/jrotor/69/ec120b.html| archive-date =26 July 2009| df =dmy-all}}
  • Edmonton Police Service{{cite web|last=Careless|first=James|title=Bringing in Backup|url=http://www.helicoptersmagazine.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=1715&Itemid=145|publisher=Helicopter Magazine|access-date=1 April 2013|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090817131405/http://www.helicoptersmagazine.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=1715&Itemid=145|archive-date=17 August 2009}}
  • York Regional Police 2002-2023
  • Winnipeg Police Service{{cite web|url= http://winnipeg.ca/police/fou/helicopter.stm|title= Winnipeg Police Service Flight Operations Unit|access-date= 16 April 2015|archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20150417030906/http://winnipeg.ca/police/fou/helicopter.stm|archive-date= 17 April 2015|url-status= live|df= dmy-all}}

;{{GER}}

  • Bundespolizei{{cite web|url= http://www.bundespolizei.de/DE/06Die-Bundespolizei/Ausstattung/Hubschrauber/hubschrauber_node.html/|title= Bundespolizei-Flugdienst|publisher= Bundespolizei.de|access-date= 27 April 2013|url-status= dead|archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20130312020309/http://www.bundespolizei.de/DE/06Die-Bundespolizei/Ausstattung/Hubschrauber/hubschrauber_node.html|archive-date= 12 March 2013|df= dmy-all}}

;{{LTU}}

  • State Border Guard{{cite web |url=http://www.pasienis.lt/ |title=Valstybės sienos apsaugos tarnyba |publisher=Pasienis.lt |date=30 April 2013|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140208001804/http://www.pasienis.lt/ |archive-date=8 February 2014 |url-status=live }}

File:Eurocopter EC-120B Colibri AN1995429.jpg at Barretos Airport]]

;{{ESP}}

  • Spanish National Police{{cite web|author=Dirección General de la Policía|title=Servicio de Medios Aéreos-Helicópteros|url=http://www.policia.es/org_central/medios_aereos/m_m_helicopteros.html|access-date=2 March 2013|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130202015913/http://policia.es/org_central/medios_aereos/m_m_helicopteros.html|archive-date=2 February 2013|url-status=dead}}

;{{USA}}

  • San Jose Police Department{{cite web|url=http://www.sjpd.org/BFO/SpecialOps/#Air2|title=SJPD Special Operations Division|publisher=sjpd.org|access-date=17 July 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160727074646/http://www.sjpd.org/bfo/SpecialOps/#Air2|archive-date=27 July 2016|url-status=live}}
  • Santa Clara County Sheriff's Office{{cite web|url=http://www.mercurynews.com/ci_16962338|title=AIR SUPPORT UNIT Veteran pilot provides eye above Santa Clara County for sheriff's deputies|work=mercurynews.com|date=28 December 2010 |access-date=17 July 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160201201611/http://www.mercurynews.com/ci_16962338|archive-date=1 February 2016|url-status=live}}
  • Baltimore Police Department{{cite web |url= http://www.airbushelicopters.com/site/en/press/Baltimore-Police-Department-Orders-Four-EC120-s_830.html?iframe=true&width=700 |title= EC120 Reaches 10,000 Flight Hour Milestone |publisher= eurocopter.com |access-date= 1 March 2013 |url-status= dead |archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20140201170222/http://www.airbushelicopters.com/site/en/press/Baltimore-Police-Department-Orders-Four-EC120-s_830.html?iframe=true&width=700 |archive-date= 1 February 2014 |df= dmy-all }}
  • Austin Police Department{{cite web|url=http://www.apdair1.com/APDAIR1.COM/About_The_Aircraft.html|title=About The Aircraft|publisher=apdair1.com|access-date=29 March 2013|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150803014003/http://www.apdair1.com/APDAIR1.COM/About_The_Aircraft.html|archive-date=3 August 2015|url-status=dead}}
  • Albuquerque Police Department{{cite web|url=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LXS8XhQlPXk|title=Albuquerque Police Department Air Support Unit – Air 1 Eurocopter EC-120B|date=6 November 2012 |publisher=youtube.com|access-date=26 December 2013|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140616011623/http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LXS8XhQlPXk|archive-date=16 June 2014|url-status=live}}
  • Sacramento County Sheriff's Department{{cite web|title=Air Operations Bureau|url=https://www.sacsheriff.com/Pages/Organization/AirOps/AirOps.aspx|website=Sacramento County Sheriff's Department|access-date=17 June 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170317012750/http://www.sacsheriff.com/Pages/Organization/AirOps/AirOps.aspx|archive-date=17 March 2017|url-status=live}}

{{KUR}}

• Kurdistan traffic police; also used for rescue and reconnaissance{{Cite web |date=2014-08-15 |title=Iraq crisis: Arming the Kurds |url=https://www.bbc.com/news/world-middle-east-28803715 |access-date=2024-01-10 |website=BBC News |language=en-GB}}

=Military operators=

;{{CHN}}

  • Chinese Army Ground Force{{cite web|url =http://www.flightglobal.com/airspace/media/reports_pdf/emptys/108161/world-air-forces-2014.pdf|title =World Air Forces 2014|publisher =Flightglobal Insight|year =2014|access-date =30 March 2014|archive-url =https://web.archive.org/web/20140810163035/http://www.flightglobal.com/airspace/media/reports_pdf/emptys/108161/world-air-forces-2014.pdf|archive-date =10 August 2014|url-status =live|df =dmy-all}}

;{{FRA}}

  • Hélidax (Army Aviation Training){{cite web |url= http://www.eurocopter.com/site/en/press/Eurocopter-delivers-the-last-of-36-EC120s-ordered-by-Helidax_723.html |title= Eurocopter delivers the last of 36 EC120s ordered by Hélidax |publisher= eurocopter.com |access-date= 1 March 2013 |url-status= dead |archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20101013221735/http://www.eurocopter.com/site/en/press/Eurocopter-delivers-the-last-of-36-EC120s-ordered-by-Helidax_723.html |archive-date= 13 October 2010 |df= dmy-all }}

;{{INA}}

  • Indonesian Army{{cite web | url=https://www.flightglobal.com/news/articles/analysis-2019-world-air-forces-directory-454126/ | title=ANALYSIS: 2019 World Air Forces Directory | publisher=DVV Media International Limited | website=flightglobal.com | access-date=30 December 2018 | archive-date=23 January 2019 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190123181847/https://www.flightglobal.com/news/articles/analysis-2019-world-air-forces-directory-454126/ | url-status=live }} – All 2 units were transferred to the Indonesian Air Force in September 2024{{cite web |title=Pengalihan Penggunaan 2 unit Helikopter EC-120 B Colibri Puspenerbad untuk TNI AU |url=https://lanud-suryadarma.tni-au.mil.id/?p=4584 |access-date= 6 December 2024 |language=id|date= 28 September 2024|website=lanud-suryadarma.tni-au.mil.id}}
  • Indonesian Navy
  • Indonesian Air Force

File:Spanish Air Force EC-120B Colibri.jpg]]

;{{MAS}}

  • Royal Malaysian Air Force{{cite web|url=http://www.gading.com.my/kasturi.html|title=Gading Kasturi|publisher=Gading|access-date=9 March 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150703144644/http://gading.com.my/kasturi.html|archive-date=3 July 2015|url-status=dead}}{{cite web|url=http://www.malaysiandefence.com/rmaf-newest-helicopter-unveiled/|title=RMAF's newest helicopter unveiled|author=Marhalim Abas|publisher=Malaysian Defence|date=3 December 2015|access-date=22 January 2015|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160122025620/http://www.malaysiandefence.com/rmaf-newest-helicopter-unveiled/|archive-date=22 January 2016|url-status=live}}

;{{MYA}}

  • Myanmar Air Force{{cite news|url=http://www.janes.com/article/66319/myanmar-commissions-transport-aircraft-helos|title=Myanmar commissions transport aircraft, helos|location=Alameda, California|publisher=IHS Jane's|last=Mazumdar|first=Mrityunjoy|date=16 December 2016|access-date=16 December 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20161217081423/http://www.janes.com/article/66319/myanmar-commissions-transport-aircraft-helos|archive-date=17 December 2016|url-status=live}}

;{{SIN}}

;{{ESP}}

Specifications (EC120 B)

File:Eurocopter EC120 orthographical image.svg

{{Aircraft specs

|ref=Jane's all the World's Aircraft 2007–08{{cite book |title=Jane's all the World's Aircraft 2007–08 |editor1-last=Jackson |editor1-first=Paul |year=2008 |publisher=Jane's Publishing Group |location=London |isbn=978-0-7106-2792-6 |pages=329–330}}

|prime units?=met

|crew=1

|capacity=4 pax / {{cvt|755|kg|0}} payload ({{cvt|700|kg|0}} max slung load)

|length m=11.52

|length note=overall

::::{{cvt|9.6|m|0}} fuselage

|height m=3.4

|height note=

|airfoil=

|empty weight kg=960

|empty weight note=

|gross weight kg=

|gross weight note=

|max takeoff weight kg=1715

|max takeoff weight note=internal load

::::{{cvt|1800|kg|0}} external load

|fuel capacity={{cvt|416|L|USgal impgal}} in two tanks

|more general=

|eng1 number=1

|eng1 name=Turbomeca TM 319 Arrius 2F

|eng1 type=turboshaft

|eng1 kw=376

|eng1 note=for take-off

::::{{cvt|335|kW|0}} max continuous

|rot number=1

|rot dia m=10.0

|rot area sqm=78.54

|rot area note=

|max speed kmh=

|max speed note=

|max speed mach=

|cruise speed kmh=226

|cruise speed note=max

::::{{cvt|191|km/h|mph kn}} econ

|stall speed kmh=

|stall speed note=

|never exceed speed kmh=278

|never exceed speed note=

|minimum control speed kmh=

|minimum control speed note=

|range km=727

|range note=no reserves

|combat range km=

|combat range note=

|ferry range km=

|ferry range note=

|endurance=4 hours 32 minutes

|ceiling m=5180

|ceiling note=

  • Hover ceiling IGE: {{cvt|2820|m|0}}
  • Hover ceiling OGE: {{cvt|2320|m|0}}

|g limits=

|roll rate=

|climb rate ms=6.1

|climb rate note=

|time to altitude=

|disk loading kg/m2=21.8

|disk loading note=internal load

::::{{cvt|22.9|kg/m2|0}} external load

|fuel consumption kg/km=

|power/mass={{cvt|0.19|kW/kg}} internal load

::::{{cvt|0.1835|kg|0}} external load

|more performance=

|avionics=Vehicle and Engine Multifunction Display (VEMD) with First Limit Indicator (FLI) fitted as standard.

}}

See also

{{Portal|Aviation}}

{{aircontent

|related=

|similar=

|lists=

|see also=

|similar aircraft=

  • Bell 206
  • Bell 407
  • Bell 505 Jet Ranger XMark Huber and Thierry Dubois. [http://www.ainonline.com/aviation-news/aviation-international-news/2013-08-03/bell-reveals-more-short-light-single "Bell Reveals more on ‘short light single’"] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140904083701/http://www.ainonline.com/aviation-news/aviation-international-news/2013-08-03/bell-reveals-more-short-light-single |date=4 September 2014 }}. AIN online, 3 August 2013. Accessed: 11 December 2013.
  • Eurocopter AS350 Écureuil
  • MD Helicopters MD 500
  • PZL SW-4 Puszczyk
  • Robinson R66

}}

References

{{Reflist|30em}}