A Squirrel and a Gazelle slipped into a hot tub after too much champagne.
First published in 2017
While technically a Gen-Z, the little EC120B is the millennial spawn of the Airbus family. In 1997 this handsome francophone boasted DNA from the SA342 and AS350 line with qualities expected to seize control of the Light Helicopter sector. Orders flew off to enthusiastic operators smitten with the sexy lines who quickly realised that it was struggling to lift… thanks to an inoperable heart defect.
A sad reality and not an encouraging start to this story but after three decades flying helicopters, I can testify that every helicopter has room for improvement and as a light turbine helicopter the EC120B is an excellent start to your aviation adventure.
Everyone agrees the EC120B is a ripper of a helicopter. It’s lovely to fly with modern avionics, comfortable seating, buckets of room for golf clubs and a fully articulated rotor head. The composite blades make for a soft ride with good speed and the baggage compartment is bigger than most backpacker dorm’s. I’ve never heard of one having an Engine or Fenestron Fan failure and it sits with plenty of head clearance for safe operations. The interior is refined with a clear European aesthetic which ensures that if you’re currently single, you won’t be for long.
What it doesn’t do is snap your neck like a Tesla in ‘ludicrous’ mode. If you grew up flying the Bell 206, then you will relate quickly to the EC120. Fly it with patience, work entirely within the Flight Manual Limitations Section under a loaded disc with options and you’ll be impressed with the performance. Alternatively; rush hot and fast into a confined area and an auditory “bing” in your ears (from the VEMD First Limit Indicator system) notifies Airbus that your minor exceedance just improved their EBITDA. It’s a fool proof reporting system which highlights that for the sake of 50 Horse Power the EC120B would’ve been an AS350 killer...
A 1998 EC120B does everything that a 2009 model does (there’s no technology or performance difference) Enjoy the EC120B, fly humbly and then when it’s time to tackle Everest, solo the Atlantic or take all the lads heli-fishing, I’ll be glad to sell you the next adventure.