Eurocopter Ec 135

Twin Rotorcraft

The Eurocopter EC135 revolutionized the light twin helicopter market when it entered service in 1996 as the first production rotorcraft with a fully hingeless Fenestron tail rotor and advanced FADEC-controlled turbine engines. Developed jointly by Eurocopter France and Germany, the EC135 became the benchmark for emergency medical services worldwide, prized for its exceptionally low vibration levels, quiet cabin, and ability to operate from confined urban helipads. Its bearingless main rotor system and shrouded tail rotor deliver handling qualities that set new standards for pilot workload reduction, while the spacious cabin accommodates up to six passengers or a full EMS stretcher configuration with two medical attendants. The type's versatility extends from air ambulance and police observation roles to corporate transport and flight training, with over 1,400 delivered across more than 60 countries. Powered by either Pratt & Whitney PW206B or Turbomeca Arrius 2B2 engines, the EC135 cruises at 140 knots with a range of approximately 370 nautical miles and can operate at altitudes up to 20,000 feet, though its sweet spot is low-level urban operations where its fenestron tail rotor provides unmatched safety around ground personnel. The type remains in production today as the Airbus H135, with continuous upgrades including glass cockpit avionics and enhanced autopilot systems that enable single-pilot IFR operations. SkyMeter has tracked 37 flights across 4 airframes and 3 operators over routes, with CHAMPLIN BRAD L the largest observed operator.