News
Wood Buffalo adds AS350 B3e to the fleet

June 26, 2013, Fort Erie – First new AS350 B3e for Wood Buffalo Helicopters of Fort McMurray, Alberta.

Utility operator, Wood Buffalo Helicopters has taken delivery of an AS350 B3e. The new aircraft is part of a fleet renewal and will join their existing fleet of Eurocopter aircraft, which includes 5 AS350 B2’s and 2 EC120’s.

“Acquisition of the AS350 B3e is an investment in the continued security and efficiency of our utility operations,” said Mr. Michael Morin. President, Wood Buffalo Helicopters. “The AS350 B3e will deliver true multi-mission functionality and reliability for our customer base.”

With over 25 years of experience in Northeastern Alberta, Wood Buffalo Helicopters has extensive knowledge of the area and provides a wide variety of utility and transport operations. The AS350 B3e will support numerous missions including; Onshore Oil and Gas field operations, Surveying and Patrol, Environmental and Wildlife Surveys as well as, Forest Protection and Fire-fighting.

“The delivery of the AS350 B3e, Wood Buffalo’s sixth AS350 aircraft, is a testament to the Ecureuil family and its exceptional reputation for safely supporting utility operations across Canada,” said Guy Joannes, President & CEO, Eurocopter Canada Limited. “The AS350 B3e’s exceptional lifting capability, high endurance, extended range and fast cruise speed make it a perfect fit for Wood Buffalo.”

The AS350 B3e has been customized with a variety of Eurocopter designed optional equipment for safe and capable utility operations, including; Right-hand Squirrel Cheek, Aft Cargo Forward Opening Kit, Longline Release/Driptorch Plug 50 A with Pilot Cyclic Control, Cargo Mirror, Longlining Enlarged Floor Window, Fuel Filter and Dual Hydraulics. For added comfort, the aircraft has been equipped with an IFS Air Conditioning System.

Additional options on the aircraft include; Cargo Swing with Fuel Drain Guard, Dual Controls as well as, Oil and Sand Filters.

The powerful AS350 B3e is reliable, comfortable, safe and cost-effective. With its power, capacity, and maneuverability, the AS350 B3e is always prepared to take on the most rigorous hot and high missions and sling work (external load capability is 3,086 lb. / 1,400 kg). The powerful Arriel 2D engine offers state-of-the-art technology for simplified maintenance and low operating costs.

The AS350 B3e cockpit is fitted with a dual LCD-screen Vehicle and Engine Multifunction Display
(VEMD), allowing the pilot to easily check the main vehicle and engine parameters. The dual-channel Full Authority Digital Engine Control (FADEC) generation is backed-up with one independent control system. Both features enhance safety and decrease the pilot’s workload, perfect for enhanced utility operations.

For more information visit the website at: www.eurocopter.com