Aircraft overview

The Airbus Helicopters H125 / AS350 Ecureuil is a single engine light utility helicopter developed by Aérospatiale, later Eurocopter and Airbus Helicopters. The AS350 first flew in 1974 and entered production in the late 1970s, with the H125 name applied to the modernized AS350 B3e line. It is used for private transport, aerial work, law enforcement, emergency services, tourism, sling load operations and high altitude missions. Its importance in the used market comes from a long production run, broad global support and a reputation for performing well in hot, high and confined area operations.

Performance & specifications

Typical H125 performance includes a cruise speed of about 133 knots and a maximum range of roughly 340 nautical miles, depending on configuration, fuel, payload and operating conditions. The type is powered by a Safran Arriel 2D turboshaft engine on current H125 models, while earlier AS350 variants use earlier Arriel or Lycoming powerplants depending on version. The H125 is commonly cited with a useful load of about 2,400 lb and an external load capability of about 3,086 lb. The certified service ceiling is around 23,000 feet, a key reason the model is frequently selected for mountain, survey and utility work.

Cabin & avionics

The cabin is typically arranged for one pilot and up to five passengers, with wide visibility, large side doors and a flat floor suited to rapid role changes. Interior condition varies widely across used examples, from utility cabins with durable trim to corporate or tourism layouts with upgraded seating and soundproofing. Avionics depend strongly on age and mission history. Many aircraft use the Airbus VEMD, Vehicle and Engine Multifunction Display, with common upgrades including Garmin G500H or G500H TXi displays, Garmin GTN 650 or GTN 750 navigators, traffic, weather, radar altimeter and mission specific equipment.

Buying & value

Buyers should separate early AS350 models from later AS350 B3, AS350 B3e and H125 aircraft, as engine fit, performance, gross weight, avionics and resale position differ materially. Review component times, engine status, dynamic component life, corrosion history, damage records, mission use and compliance with Airbus service bulletins. Common value drivers include the Arriel 2D engine, dual hydraulics where applicable, modern glass avionics, utility provisions, cargo hook, bear paws, wire strike protection, air conditioning and low time components. Current PlaneFox used listings show an average asking price around EUR 1,610,000, with a range from about EUR 349,000 to EUR 3,100,000, reflecting the wide spread between older AS350 examples and late model H125 aircraft.