February 2023: MBB Bo 108/Eurocopter EC135/Airbus H135
Bo 108 first flight: October 15, 1988 (35th Anniversary)
2nd demonstrator first flight: June 5, 1991
EC135 first flight: February 15, 1994
The development of the H135 started under Messerschmitt-Bölkow-Blohm (MBB) as the Bo 108. This was done in partnership with Aerospatiale prior to their merger to create Eurocopter. Initially, the Bo 108 intended to be a technology demonstrator evolving the Bo 105 by incorporating more efficient aerodynamic designs. Other technologies included the first full-authority engine controls (FADEC) installed on a helicopter, a hingeless rotor and a new drivetrain. The first flight took place on Oct. 17, 1988, powered by two Allison 250-C20R/1 engines; a second aircraft followed in 1991, powered by two Turbomeca Arrius engines.
Development continued throughout the 1990s with multiple new technologies being tested. Towards the end of the decade, the design was revised to incorporate the Fenestron tail rotor system, advanced rigid rotor, composite materials and vibration reduction systems. At this point, MBB decided to pursue full certification given the positive results during testing. and the model designation was changed to “EC135” to reflect the new merged company, Eurocopter. The first public appearance was made at Heli-Expo, Las Vegas in 1995 and certification was completed in 1996.
Since certification, multiple upgrades have been done to the aircraft. These include single-pilot instrument flight rules (IFR), multiple engine upgrades, new blades, and higher gross weight. In 2014, with the rebranding of Eurocopter to Airbus Helicopters, the model was redesignated “H135.” Operationally, the H135 has been a widely successful aircraft with over 1,400 being produced. Available with either Turbomeca Arrius or Pratt & Whitney PW206 engines, the H135 has been embraced primarily by both emergency medical services (EMS) and police departments around the world for its utility design and reliability.
Description: Rob Roedts
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2023 History Calendar Index