From Eurocopter booth #1917 at the 2012 Heli-Expo, Eurocopter introduced the EC130 T2 to the industry with another classic production and reveal event at the start of the 2012 Heli-Expo tradeshow. During the event, American Eurocopter customer Maverick Helicopters was announced as one of the launch customers for this new product line with a signed agreement to purchase 10 of the new EC130 T2 helicopters with options for 40 more.

“Maverick is a leader in the tourism industry and they have chosen the EC130 T2 as the aircraft for the future of their helicopter fleet,” stated Marc Paganini, President and CEO of American Eurocopter. “Greg Rochna and his team have proven that they know the industry, and they have a customer-first culture. At American Eurocopter, we share the same focus and we look forward to continuing this strong relationship we have developed through the years.”

Maverick Helicopters began in 1995 with one aircraft. It was one of the initial customers for the EC130 and took delivery of its first EC130 “ECO-Star” in 2003. Since then, the company has grown into the largest operator of EC130s in the world. The order is part of an upgrade and replacement program for Maverick’s all-Eurocopter fleet of EC130s.
“Our goal is to offer our clients the safest, most comfortable VIP service possible. We continue to choose the EC130 ECO-Star product line because it is made for the tourism industry,” said Greg Rochna, Chairman and CEO of Maverick Helicopters. “With the enhanced performance and the technology and product improvements offered by the EC130 T2, we can continue to meet our goals and provide our customers with a unique tour experience.”

Maverick Helicopters’ commitment to excellence in service is only matched by its commitment to safety. The company’s safety record is among the best in the world. It is this commitment to excellence that drove the company to fly only helicopters from American Eurocopter. “We made the choice to become an all-Eurocopter fleet because of the superior performance and safety characteristics of the ECO-Star and the matching support from American Eurocopter,” explained Rochna.

The spacious EC130 was initially designed for the tourism industry and its spacious cabin can comfortably accommodate up to seven passengers. The EC130 T2 brings a more powerful 950 shp class ARRIEL 2D engine that provides improved fuel efficiency, offers an engine data recorder, and will offer a 6,000 hour mature TBO (Time Between Overhaul), which will help reduce operating and direct maintenance costs. The additional power also results in an increased max weight and CG range for improved useful load.

The EC130 T2 features more than just a bigger engine. Eurocopter also included several upgrades to increase passenger comfort that include an active vibration control system for a more comfortable ride, an improved air conditioning system, an optional right-side cabin sliding door, and other cabin and interior improvements.

The EC130 product line’s excellent visibility, unmatched cabin comfort, powerful performance, and low direct operating costs and maintenance requirements make it a perfect fit for air tourism. These same characteristics have resulted in its broad appeal to other operations, including corporate and air medical missions. American Eurocopter anticipates even more interest in these markets, as well.

For more information on the new EC130 T2, stop by the Eurocopter Heli-Expo booth #1917 or visit www.eurocopterusa.com.