The EC135 is a twin-engine civil helicopter originally developed and produced by Eurocopter, a subsidiary of Airbus Helicopters. It is a light utility helicopter designed for a wide range of missions, including emergency medical services, law enforcement, search and rescue, and executive transport. Known for its versatility, reliability, and advanced technology, the EC135 features digital flight controls and is capable of operating under instrument flight rules (IFR). It entered service in 1996 and has since been redesignated as the H135 under the Airbus branding.
The development of the EC135 began in the early 1990s as a joint venture between Eurocopter and MBB, focusing on creating a modern, multi-role light helicopter to succeed earlier models like the BO 105. The first prototype, designated as the ECX, made its maiden flight on February 18, 1994. Certification by the European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) followed in 1996, allowing the helicopter to enter commercial service that year.
Production ramped up quickly, with the helicopter gaining popularity for its quiet operation, thanks to the Fenestron tail rotor system, and its modular design that allowed for easy customization. In 2014, the EC135 T3 variant was introduced, featuring enhanced performance with Pratt & Whitney Canada PW206B3 engines. By December 2020, EASA certified an Alternate Gross Weight (AGW) increase of up to 120 kg for the H135 family, extending range by up to 75 nautical miles or endurance by 40 minutes. That same year, a single-pilot IFR Helionix cockpit was certified, offering options for copilot panel removal to improve visibility.
Over 1,560 units of the H135 family, including the EC135, have been delivered worldwide as of 2024, operating in more than 63 countries. The helicopter's evolution reflects advancements in avionics, such as the Helionix suite with 4-axis autopilot, synthetic vision, and health-and-usage monitoring systems (HUMS). Its heritage traces back to the BK 117 and MD Helicopters MD 530, incorporating proven rotor and transmission technologies.
For more on the history, see Eurocopter EC135 - Wikipedia and H135 | Airbus.
The EC135 / H135 is powered by two Turbomeca Arrius 2B or Pratt & Whitney Canada PW206B3 turboshaft engines, each producing up to 347 kW (465 shp). It features a four-blade main rotor and a Fenestron tail rotor for reduced noise and improved safety.
The helicopter's advanced Helionix avionics include a 4-axis autopilot, integrated displays, and optional features like traffic collision avoidance systems (TCAS) and terrain awareness warning systems (TAWS). It is certified for hot-and-high operations and can operate in diverse environments from urban settings to offshore platforms.
Detailed specs can be found at Eurocopter EC135 - Aero Corner and Eurocopter EC135 - Technical Parameters.
The EC135 excels in roles requiring precision and reliability. In emergency medical services (EMS), it is widely used for air ambulance operations, with quick reconfiguration for stretchers and medical equipment. Law enforcement agencies employ it for surveillance, patrol, and tactical insertions, benefiting from its low noise signature for discreet operations.
Search and rescue (SAR) missions leverage its IFR capabilities and hoist systems for operations in adverse weather. Corporate and executive transport versions offer luxurious interiors for VIP shuttling. Military variants, such as the UH-72 Lakota for the U.S. Army, adapt it for utility and training roles. Its modular airframe supports specialized equipment like electro-optical/infrared (EO/IR) sensors, winches, and cargo hooks.
The helicopter's global adoption underscores its role in public safety and humanitarian efforts. For instance, it has been integral in disaster response and offshore energy support. Ongoing upgrades ensure it remains competitive against rivals like the Bell 407 and AgustaWestland AW109.
Further context on uses is available at H135 | Airbus and The Eurocopter EC-135: A Closer Look.