Aerospatiale As 350

Single Rotorcraft

The Aerospatiale AS 350 Ecureuil, marketed as the AStar in North America, is a single-engine light utility helicopter that became one of the most successful rotorcraft designs in history after its 1975 introduction. Built initially by Aerospatiale and later by Eurocopter and Airbus Helicopters, the AS 350 family has sold over 6,000 units worldwide, serving roles from emergency medical services and law enforcement to tourism, aerial work, and high-altitude operations. The type earned particular fame in 2005 when test pilot Didier Delsalle landed an AS350 B3 on the summit of Mount Everest at 29,029 feet, setting an absolute helicopter altitude landing record that still stands. With a never-exceed speed of 155 knots and a maximum takeoff weight around 4,960 pounds depending on variant, the AS 350 offers exceptional hot-and-high performance thanks to its powerful turboshaft engine and efficient aerodynamics. The Ecureuil's trademark Fenestron shrouded tail rotor (introduced on later variants) reduces noise and improves safety in confined areas, making it a favorite for urban operations. Its rugged simplicity, wide cabin, and external cargo hook capability have made it equally at home performing utility sling loads in remote wilderness, conducting aerial surveys over cities, or shuttling executives between helipads. SkyMeter has tracked 3 flights across 1 airframes and 1 operators, with IZUNO KEMPTON I the largest observed operator.