Press Release

Issued by Safran Helicopter Engines.

October 13, 2014

Turbomeca has announced EASA certification of the Arrius 2B2plus turboshaft engine.

Specifically developed to power light single and twin helicopters, the 2B2plus powers the Airbus Helicopters EC135 T3. The first delivery to a customer from Airbus Helicopters is expected in the coming weeks.

The 2B2plus is the latest member of the Arrius family which has recorded seven million flight hours, making it the most used engine family of its class on the market. In addition to its unmatched reliability, it offers a number of advantages over existing models : the engine delivers a 6% power increase in hot and high conditions compared to the previous 2B2 version, strongly contributing to the T3's ability to carry more than 200 kg extra payload at the same altitude.

A 4,000 hours TBO (time between overhaul) coupled with low fuel consumption makes the 2B2plus one of the most competitive engines in its class.

Its flight profile increases the safety margin of particular missions, such as EMS missions, flown over congested areas, where a strong single-engine performance is required.

The 2B2plus has a simple and modern design that is facilitating maintenance tasks. Customers also benefit from a computerized maintenance aid that makes use of the data recorded from the engine electronic control unit.

All these benefits are granted at the same direct maintenance cost (DMC) to the previous 2B2 version. Furthermore, all current tools and parts are still good for the 2B2plus. No additional training is required.

To date, 650 customers across 75 countries have chosen the Arrius for their operations and Turbomeca has sold more than 3,000 engines of this family. This proven reliability, combined with Turbomeca's renowned service and support capabilities, make it the best engine for critical missions.