Eurocopter (Airbus Helicopters) As350b3

Single Rotorcraft

The Eurocopter AS350 B3 Ecureuil (marketed as the AStar in North America) holds the distinction of being the highest-altitude landing helicopter in history. In 2005, test pilot Didier Delsalle touched down on the summit of Mount Everest at 29,029 feet, twice, demonstrating the type's exceptional high-altitude performance powered by its Arriel 2B1 turboshaft engine. This single-engine light utility helicopter has become the workhorse of mountain operations worldwide, from Himalayan rescue missions to heli-skiing in the Rockies, thanks to its combination of power, reliability, and relatively modest operating costs. Introduced in the early 2000s as an evolution of the proven AS350 family, the B3 variant brought significant improvements in hot-and-high performance over its predecessors. The type seats up to six passengers plus pilot and is equally at home performing aerial work (powerline inspection, firefighting with Bambi buckets, law enforcement patrol) as it is shuttling executives or tourists. Its maximum cruise speed approaches 140 knots, with a service ceiling around 15,000 feet under standard conditions, though the Everest feat proved it capable of far more in skilled hands. The B3's skid landing gear and external cargo hook make it adaptable to environments where wheeled aircraft cannot venture. The AS350 B3 competes directly with the Bell 407 in the single-engine turbine market but has carved out a particular reputation in high-altitude and mountainous terrain where its power-to-weight ratio shines. Operators range from small charter companies and private owners to government agencies and utility contractors. The type's relatively simple systems and widespread parts availability have made it a favorite among owner-pilots and small operators who value maintainability alongside capability. SkyMeter has tracked 20 flights across 13 airframes and 12 operators, with MOONRISE SOARING INC the largest observed operator.