Eurocopter have issued “Information Notice” document number 2157-I-00 in which they express the opinion that all SA360C Dauphins are now withdrawn from use, and have asked any operator to contact them by 1st May 2010.  If none come forward by that date, they will commence the withdrawal of the type certificate.  A total of 2 prototype and 34 production examples were built, following a first flight in 1972, with early versions powered by the Turbomeca Astazou XVI engine and later versions by an Astazou XVIIIA.  Market demand for a twin engined helicopter kept production low.

In the same document, Eurocopter are apparently starting to make enquiries on the twin engined SA365C Dauphins, asking operators to confirm how much they are using their aircraft. First flying in June 1975, production of the 365C model totalled just over 70 before this model was superceded by the much more popular 365N, development of which has continued through various versions to todays EC155B1.  By asking operators this question, it is evident that Eurocopter have put the 365C model next on the chopping block.

Operators can make further enquiries with Eurocopter via Gérard Joncour, the Technical Support Chief for the Dauphin range.  He can be reached via  fax +33 4 42 85 99 55 or email gerard.joncour@eurocopter.com