Eurocopter EC120

The light single-engine helicopter built for training and private use.

Overview

Eurocopter France ICAO: EC20 1995–2017 Active $2 million (2013)

The Eurocopter EC120 Colibri was introduced in the late 1990s as a light training and utility helicopter. Designed for simplicity and low operating cost, it features a compact cabin and modern rotor system. The aircraft serves civilian operators worldwide.

Live Fleet Activity (EC20)

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Specifications

Units
Engine
1 × Turbomeca Arrius 2F turboshaft
Engine type
Turboshaft
Power
504 shp · 376 kW
Avionics
Sagem avionics
Wing tips
No winglets
Seats
5
Crew
—
Cabin width
4 ft 5 in  ·  1.35 m
Cabin height
4 ft 1 in  ·  1.25 m
Cabin length
7 ft 7 in  ·  2.30 m
Exterior length
37 ft 10 in  ·  11.52 m
Tail height
11 ft 2 in  ·  3.40 m
Fuselage diameter
4 ft 11 in  ·  1.50 m
Wing span
32 ft 10 in  ·  10.00 m
Baggage volume
28 ft³  ·  0.8 m³
Gross weight
—
Empty weight
—
Max takeoff weight
3,950 lb  ·  1,800 kg
Max landing weight
—
Max payload
1,600 lb  ·  700 kg
Fuel capacity
110 gal · 400 L · 300 kg (Jet A)
Max cruise speed
150 kt  ·  173 mph  ·  278 km/h
Maximum speed
—
Cruise speed
—
Approach speed
—
Range
397 nm  ·  460 mi  ·  740 km
Fuel burn
4.02 nm/gal  ·  1.97 km/L
Ceiling
20,000 ft  ·  6,100 m
Rate of climb
1,400 ft/min  ·  7 m/s
Takeoff distance
—
Landing distance
—
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EC120 Colibri ‘F-GVTA’

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Operational Context

Eurocopter EC120 — light single-engine helicopter

The EC120 first flew in 1995 and entered service in 1998. It features a Fenestron tail rotor and composite airframe components. The helicopter was developed through international collaboration.

A single turboshaft engine producing approximately 500 shaft horsepower powers the aircraft. Cruise speed approaches 120 knots (222 km/h). Maximum takeoff weight exceeds 3,700 pounds (1,678 kg).

The EC120 became popular for pilot training and private ownership. Its compact design supports urban and light utility missions. Production continued for many years under Airbus branding.

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