View source for Eurocopter EC120 Colibri

{{Use dmy dates|date=September 2019}}
{{short description|Utility helicopter}}
<!-- This article is a part of [[Wikipedia:WikiProject Aircraft]]. Please see [[Wikipedia:WikiProject Aircraft/page content]] for recommended layout. -->
{{Infobox aircraft
 |name= EC120 Colibri<br>HC120
 |image= File:Eurocopter EC-120B Colibri AN0367366.jpg
 |caption= EC120B
 |type= Light [[utility helicopter]]
 |national_origin= Multinational
 |manufacturer= [[Eurocopter]]<br>[[Airbus Helicopters]]<br>[[Harbin Aircraft Industry Group]]
 |designer= <!--only appropriate for single designers, not project leaders-->
 |first_flight= <!--if it hasn't happened, leave it out!--> 9 June 1995
 |introduction= <!--date the aircraft entered military or revenue service--> 1998
 |retired= <!--date the aircraft left military or revenue service. if vague or multiples, it probably should be skipped-->
 |status= <!--in most cases, this field is redundant; use it sparingly--> Out of production
 |primary_user= <!--please list only one, and don't use those tiny flags as they limit horizontal space-->
 |more_users= <!--up to three more. please separate with <br> .-->
 |produced= 1995–2017
 |number_built= ~700 (2015)<ref>{{cite web |title=H120 - Airbus Helicopters |url=http://www.helicopters.airbus.com/website/en/ref/H120_430.html |website=www.helicopters.airbus.com |access-date=25 July 2018 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180725153340/http://www.helicopters.airbus.com/website/en/ref/H120_430.html |archive-date=25 July 2018 |url-status=live  }}</ref>
 |unit cost= US$795,000 (June 1999)<ref name = "six product"/><br/> ~US$2M, €1.5M (August 2013)<ref name=dub1>Mark Huber and Thierry Dubois. [http://www.ainonline.com/aviation-news/aviation-international-news/2013-08-03/bell-reveals-more-short-light-single "Bell Reveals more on ‘short light single’"] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140904083701/http://www.ainonline.com/aviation-news/aviation-international-news/2013-08-03/bell-reveals-more-short-light-single |date=4 September 2014 }}. AIN online, 3 August 2013. Accessed: 11 December 2013.</ref>
 |developed_from= <!-- the aircraft which formed the basis for the topic type -->
 |variants= <!-- variants OF the topic type -->
}}

The '''Eurocopter''', later '''Airbus Helicopters''' '''EC120 Colibri''' ("[[hummingbird]]") is a five-seat, single-engine, light [[utility helicopter]]. Jointly designed and developed by [[Eurocopter]], [[China National Aero-Technology Import & Export Corporation]] ([[CATIC]]), [[Harbin Aircraft Manufacturing Corporation|Harbin Aviation Industries (Group) Ltd]] (HAIG) and [[ST Aerospace|Singapore Technologies Aerospace Ltd]] (STAero) at Eurocopter France's [[Marignane]] facility, the EC120B was assembled by Eurocopter in France and Australia.<ref>{{cite web|title=EC120 Assembly Line|url=http://www.ausaero.com.au/CivilHelicopters/EC120BAssyLine/tabid/207/Default.aspx|website=Australian Aerospace|access-date=17 June 2017|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20070822002711/http://www.ausaero.com.au/CivilHelicopters/EC120BAssyLine/tabid/207/Default.aspx|archive-date=22 August 2007}}</ref>

In China, the aircraft is produced by [[Harbin Aircraft Industry Group|Harbin Aircraft Manufacturing Corporation (HAMC)]] as the '''HC120'''.<ref>{{cite web|title=HC120 [EC-120] Helicopter|url=http://www.globalsecurity.org/military/world/china/hc-120.htm|website=Global Security.org|access-date=17 June 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170721090612/http://www.globalsecurity.org/military/world/china/hc-120.htm|archive-date=21 July 2017|url-status=live}}</ref> In 2004, HAMC began local manufacturing of the HC120 at their assembly line in [[Harbin]], in northern China. In the Chinese market, both the [[People's Liberation Army]] and multiple local police forces have purchased HC120 helicopters.<ref>{{cite web|title=HC-120 Helicopters built in Harbin China|url=http://www.airforceworld.com/pla/ec120-helicopter-china.htm|website=Air Force World (in Chinese)|publisher=Air Force World|access-date=17 June 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160303221538/http://www.airforceworld.com/pla/ec120-helicopter-china.htm|archive-date=3 March 2016|url-status=dead}}</ref>

==Development==
The EC120 Colibri has its origins in the P120, a proposal by French helicopter manufacturer [[Aérospatiale]] that was intended to replace both their [[Aérospatiale Gazelle]] and [[Aérospatiale SA 315B Lama]] single engine helicopters. During the 1980s, Aérospatiale sought international partners with which to co-produce the P120, these included aerospace companies in China, Singapore, and Australia.<ref>[https://www.flightglobal.com/FlightPDFArchive/1989/1989%20-%203662.PDF "Australia pulls out of Aerospatiale P120."] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20151208081026/https://www.flightglobal.com/FlightPDFArchive/1989/1989%20-%203662.PDF |date=8 December 2015 }} ''Flight International'', 5 December 1989.</ref><ref>[https://web.archive.org/web/20160220121728/https://www.highbeam.com/doc/1G1-10949159.html "Aerospatiale to build light helicopters with China and Singapore. (P-120 helicopter)."] ''Defense Daily'', 3 July 1991.</ref> In the aftermath of the Chinese Government's crackdown on the [[Tiananmen Square protests of 1989]], the exclusion of Chinese involvement in the project was speculated.<ref>[https://www.flightglobal.com/pdfarchive/view/1989/1989%20-%202113.html "Aerospatiale venture faces China crisis."] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20151208064201/https://www.flightglobal.com/pdfarchive/view/1989/1989%20-%202113.html |date=8 December 2015 }} ''Flight International'', 8 July 1989.</ref>

On 20 October 1992, a contract for the joint development contract of the new helicopter was signed by the three principle partners of the project, the newly formed [[Eurocopter]], [[China National Aero-Technology Import & Export Corporation]] (CATIC) and [[ST Aerospace|Singapore Aerospace Ltd]] (STAero).<ref name = "air hist"/> Under the joint development agreement, Eurocopter received a 61% controlling interest and technical leader in the programme, CATIC received a 24% work share and STAero received a 15% work share; CATIC designed and produced the cabin structure and fuel system, STAero produced the tail boom, access doors, and composite materials, while Eurocopter produced the dynamic assemblies, installed the avionics, electrical and [[hydraulic]] systems, and conducted the final assembly activity.<ref name = "light intern">Grey, Peter. [https://www.flightglobal.com/news/articles/light-flier-37102/ "Light flier."] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20151208064203/https://www.flightglobal.com/news/articles/light-flier-37102/ |date=8 December 2015 }} ''Flight International'', 13 May 1998.</ref> Development of the rotorcraft allowed Eurocopter to extend its range to include {{convert|1.5|t|ST|adj=on|lk=on}} rotorcraft.<ref name = "air hist"/>

[[File:Eurocopter EC-120B Colibri (D-HEHA) 03.jpg|thumb|An EC120 hovering, 2010]]
On 9 June 1995, the first prototype EC120 Colibri conducted its [[maiden flight]].<ref name = "air hist">[https://www.airbushelicopters.com/website/en/ref/History_153.html "History: From Eurocopter to Airbus Helicopters."] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150926154602/http://www.airbushelicopters.com/website/en/ref/History_153.html |date=26 September 2015 }} ''Airbus Helicopters'', Retrieved: 29 November 2015.</ref> By February 1996, the prototype had accumulated 60 flight hours, a second prototype joined the test program later that year.<ref>[https://www.flightglobal.com/news/articles/ec120-testing-reaches-60h-20899/ "EC120 testing reaches 60h."] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20151208065434/https://www.flightglobal.com/news/articles/ec120-testing-reaches-60h-20899/ |date=8 December 2015 }} ''Flight International'', 14 February 1996.</ref> In February 1997, the EC120 Colibri was formally launched at the [[Helicopter Association International]] (HAI) show in [[Anaheim, California]]; by June 1997, more than 50 orders had been received for the type.<ref>[https://www.flightglobal.com/news/articles/helicopters-on-the-rise-2886/ "Helicopters on the rise."] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20151208065919/https://www.flightglobal.com/news/articles/helicopters-on-the-rise-2886/ |date=8 December 2015 }} ''Flight International'', 14 May 1997.</ref><ref>[https://www.flightglobal.com/news/articles/eurocopter-wins-dauphin-orders-5563/ "Eurocopter wins Dauphin orders."] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20151208060145/https://www.flightglobal.com/news/articles/eurocopter-wins-dauphin-orders-5563/ |date=8 December 2015 }} ''Flight International'', 25 June 1997.</ref> By October 1998, more than 100 orders had been received for the type, leading Eurocopter to increase the production rate from four helicopters per month to six.<ref name = "six product">Moxon, Julian. [https://www.flightglobal.com/news/articles/growing-demand-for-colibri-prompts-production-incr-44078/ "'Growing demand' for Colibri prompts production increase."] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20151208075104/https://www.flightglobal.com/news/articles/growing-demand-for-colibri-prompts-production-incr-44078/ |date=8 December 2015 }} ''Flight International'', 21 October 1998.</ref> In 2002, Eurocopter was in the process of establishing a second assembly line for the EC120 at Australian Aerospace's facility in [[Brisbane]], [[Australia]].<ref>[http://www.airbusgroup.com/int/en/news-media/press-releases/Airbus-Group/Financial_Communication/2002/07/en_20020705_australia_e.html "Australian Prime Minister Inspects Eurocopter Helicopters during his State Visit to Germany."] {{webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20151208130123/http://www.airbusgroup.com/int/en/news-media/press-releases/Airbus-Group/Financial_Communication/2002/07/en_20020705_australia_e.html |date=8 December 2015 }} ''Airbus Helicopters'', 4 July 2002.</ref>

In September 2003, Eurocopter and [[China Aviation Industry Corporation II]] (AVIC II) expanded their partnership agreement to include a co-production arrangement with AVIC II-subsidiary [[Harbin Aircraft Industry Group]] (HAIG).<ref>Sobie, Brendan. [https://www.flightglobal.com/news/articles/eurocopter-expands-chinese-deal-with-ec120-171488/ "Eurocopter expands Chinese deal with EC120."] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20151208074224/https://www.flightglobal.com/news/articles/eurocopter-expands-chinese-deal-with-ec120-171488/ |date=8 December 2015 }} ''Flight International'', 23 September 2003.</ref> On 11 June 2004, a final production agreement was signed; under the agreement, CATIA and HAIG received exclusive market rights in China, and Eurocopter agreed to stop selling French-built EC120s in mainland China.<ref name = "china prod 04">Sobie, Brendan. [https://www.flightglobal.com/news/articles/chinese-army-ready-to-launch-hc120-after-production-183207/ "Chinese army ready to launch HC120 after production deal."] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20151208081712/https://www.flightglobal.com/news/articles/chinese-army-ready-to-launch-hc120-after-production-183207/ |date=8 December 2015 }} ''Flight International'', 22 June 2014.</ref> In June 2014, the [[People's Liberation Army]] of China became the launch customer for the Harbin-produced HC120, reportedly placing an order for eight of the type with options for fifty more.<ref name = "china prod 04"/>

On 30 November 2017 Airbus Helicopters formally announced the end of the H120 program citing low delivery numbers.  Only five H120s were delivered in 2016 compared to 63 [[Robinson R-66]]s.  Airbus stated they are moving away from the lower end of the market spectrum and those helicopters are not as sophisticated as their traditional product line.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.verticalmag.com/news/airbus-helicopters-terminates-h120-program/|title=Airbus Helicopters terminates H120 program - Vertical Magazine|website=VerticalMag.com|date=30 November 2017 |access-date=4 December 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20171204171229/https://www.verticalmag.com/news/airbus-helicopters-terminates-h120-program/|archive-date=4 December 2017|url-status=live}}</ref>

=== Diesel demonstrator ===
[[File:Paris Air Show 2017 mecachrome AE440 front.jpg|thumb|The AE440 presented by Mecachrome in 2017]]

Within the Green Rotorcraft European [[Clean Sky]] Joint Technology Initiative environmental research program started in 2011, a H120 Technology demonstrator equipped with a HIPE AE440 high-compression [[aircraft diesel engine]], running on [[jet fuel]], first flew on 6 November 2015.<ref name=EC160219/> It aimed to reduce [[pollutant]] emissions and increase [[fuel efficiency]], nearly double the [[Range (aeronautics)|range]] and enhance operations in [[hot and high]] conditions.<ref name=151110PR>{{cite press release |url= https://www.airbushelicopters.com/website/en/press/Airbus-Helicopters-starts-flight-tests-with-high-compression-engine-for-cleaner,-more-efficient-and-higher-performance-rotorcraft_1859.html |title= Airbus Helicopters starts flight tests with high-compression piston engine |publisher= Airbus Helicopter |date= 10 November 2015|archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20170320194343/http://www.airbushelicopters.com/website/en/press/Airbus-Helicopters-starts-flight-tests-with-high-compression-engine-for-cleaner,-more-efficient-and-higher-performance-rotorcraft_1859.html |archive-date= 20 March 2017 |url-status= live |df= dmy-all }}</ref>

The powerplant trialed was a [[liquid-cooled]], [[dry sump]] lubricated 4.6-liter 90° [[V8 engine]] with an {{convert|1800|bar|psi|adj=on}} [[common rail]] direct injection, fully machined aluminum blocks, titanium connecting rods, steel pistons and liners, one [[turbocharger]] per cylinder bank.<ref name=151110PR/> With an air-to-air [[intercooler]], it weighed {{convert|197|kg}} without gearbox and the {{convert|330|kW|hp|abbr=on}} installed powerpack weighs {{convert|249|kg}}.<ref name=EC160219>{{cite web |url= http://cordis.europa.eu/result/rcn/177069_en.html |title= Final Report Summary – HIPE AE 440 (Diesel Powerpack for a Light Helicopter Demonstrator) |work= [[CORDIS]] |publisher= European Commission |date= 19 February 2016 |access-date= 1 March 2017 |archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20170302030735/http://cordis.europa.eu/result/rcn/177069_en.html |archive-date= 2 March 2017 |url-status= live |df= dmy-all }}</ref> The rotors were driven via the existing transmission, the faster-turning [[Turbomeca Arrius]] turboshaft was replaced with a multiplier [[gearbox]].<ref>{{cite news |author= Graham Warwick |url= http://aviationweek.com/business-aviation/clean-sky-prepares-helo-diesel-flight-tests |title= Clean Sky Prepares For Helo Diesel Flight Tests |date= 20 March 2015 |work= Aviation Week |access-date= 30 October 2015 |archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20151126064846/http://aviationweek.com/business-aviation/clean-sky-prepares-helo-diesel-flight-tests |archive-date= 26 November 2015 |url-status= live |df= dmy-all }}</ref>

The [[brake specific fuel consumption]] was 200&nbsp;g/kW⋅h.<ref>{{cite web |url= http://www.teos-engineering.com/experience/jet-a1-aircraft-engine/ |title= Jet A-1 Aircraft Engine |publisher= Teos Powertrain Engineering |access-date= 1 March 2017 |archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20170302025727/http://www.teos-engineering.com/experience/jet-a1-aircraft-engine/ |archive-date= 2 March 2017 |url-status= live |df= dmy-all }}</ref> Torque oscillations were reduced through a light torsional shaft and vibrations are damped by Silent blocs.<ref>{{cite web |author= Alexandre Gierczynski |url= http://www.aerodays2015.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/20/2G-Alexandre-Gierczynski.pdf |title= Light Helicopter Demonstrator with HCE |publisher= Airbus |date= 20 October 2015 |url-status= dead |archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20151126041340/http://www.aerodays2015.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/20/2G-Alexandre-Gierczynski.pdf |archive-date= 26 November 2015 |df= dmy-all }}</ref> It was manufactured by Teos Powertrain Engineering—a joint venture between [[Mecachrome]] and D2T (IFPEN group)—for the mechanical design, engine main parts manufacturing, assembly and testing and [[Austro Engine]] for the dual-channel [[FADEC]] and harness, fuel system, airworthiness.<ref name=EC160219/> Power was maintained at 2,500&nbsp;m and ISA+20° and it achieved 42% a fuel consumption reduction, reducing the direct operating costs by 30% along with simpler maintenance.<ref>{{cite news |url= https://www.flightglobal.com/news/articles/analysis-airbus-helicopters-powers-a-piston-revolut-434221/ |title= Airbus Helicopters powers a piston revolution for light singles |date= 1 March 2017 |work= Flight Global |access-date= 1 March 2017 |archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20170301151321/https://www.flightglobal.com/news/articles/analysis-airbus-helicopters-powers-a-piston-revolut-434221/ |archive-date= 1 March 2017 |url-status= live |df= dmy-all }}</ref>

==Design==
[[File:Eurocopter EC-120B Colibri AN1535581.jpg|thumb|The cockpit of an EC120 B Colibri]]
The EC120B Colibri is a single-engine multimission helicopter, designed for safe, simple, and cost-effective operations. It incorporates several of Eurocopter's trademarked technologies, those of prominence are the three-bladed Speriflex main rotor head and the eight-bladed [[fenestron]] anti-torque tail rotor;<ref>[https://www.flightglobal.com/pdfarchive/view/1990/1990%20-%200541.html "P.120 Programme take shape."] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20151208051621/https://www.flightglobal.com/pdfarchive/view/1990/1990%20-%200541.html |date=8 December 2015 }} ''Flight International'', 6 March 1990.</ref> these have been partially credited with contributing to the rotorcraft's noise signature, which is 6.7 [[decibel]]s below [[International Civil Aviation Organization]] (ICAO) limits.<ref name="air handy">[http://www.airbushelicopters.com/website/docs_wsw/RUB_26/tile_2581/EC120_B-BR-0114E.pdf "EC120 B: Everything you need in One Handy Little Package."] {{webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150911201359/http://www.airbushelicopters.com/website/docs_wsw/RUB_26/tile_2581/EC120_B-BR-0114E.pdf |date=11 September 2015 }} ''Airbus Helicopters'', 2014.</ref> 

Airbus Helicopters has claimed that the EC120 B possesses the lowest operating cost in its class. As of 2014, the EC120 has the distinction of being the only single-engine rotorcraft to be certified to JAR/FAR 27 standards; measures incorporated to meet these standards include an energy-attenuating main structure, energy-absorbent seats for all on board, and a crash-resistant fuel system.<ref name = "air handy"/><ref name = "air tech"/>

The aircraft features a wide, [[ergonomic]] cabin with high levels of external visibility, which can accommodate a single pilot along with four passengers in typical passenger configuration.<ref name = "air handy"/> The design of the cabin is suitable for a wide variety of civilian and parapublic missions, such as utility transport, offshore transport, training, law enforcement, [[Air Ambulance|casualty evacuation]] and corporate transport. In the casualty evacuation role, the rotorcraft can carry one pilot and one stretcher patient as well as one or two medical attendants.<ref name = "air handy"/>

In a cargo-carrying capacity, the EC120 can carry one pilot plus {{convert|2.94|m3|abbr=on}} of total useful load volume spread between the cabin and the {{convert|0.8|m3|abbr=on}} hold, which is externally accessible from the right-hand side and to the rear, as well as from the cabin in some configurations. To ease cargo operations, the cabin floor is flat and unobstructed; alternatively, a cargo sling can be installed to carry cargo of up to {{convert|700|kg|sigfig=3|abbr=on}}.<ref name = "air handy"/>

[[File:N175SC tail (EC120).jpg|thumb|A view of the EC120B's tailboom and fenestron anti-torque tail fan]]
According to Airbus Helicopters, the EC120B integrates a high level of advanced technology to make the rotorcraft easier and safer to fly, as well as to reduce costs. A particular emphasis was placed on allowing end-customers to perform as much of the maintenance tasks themselves.<ref name = "air handy"/> The primary instrument panel is the twin-screen vehicle and engine multifunction display (VEMD) which provides control and monitoring of various aspects of the rotorcraft, such as the fenestron tail rotor and key engine parameters; the VEMD decreases overall pilot workload for greater safety.<ref name = "air handy"/> In a baseline configuration, [[flight control]]s are installed only on the right-hand side, dual controls or left-hand only flight controls can be optionally installed.<ref name="air tech">[http://www.airbushelicopters.com/website/docs_wsw/RUB_26/tile_2581/120_B_15.100.pdf "EC120 B: Technical Data 2015."] {{webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150911201313/http://www.airbushelicopters.com/website/docs_wsw/RUB_26/tile_2581/120_B_15.100.pdf |date=11 September 2015 }} ''Airbus Helicopters'', 2015.</ref> Third parties have offered their own avionics suites for the EC120, adding functionality such as an [[autopilot]].<ref>[https://www.flightglobal.com/news/articles/regourd-offers-advanced-suite-in-entry-level-ec120-colibri-204444/ "Regourd offers advanced suite in entry-level EC120 Colibri."] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20151208050311/https://www.flightglobal.com/news/articles/regourd-offers-advanced-suite-in-entry-level-ec120-colibri-204444/ |date=8 December 2015 }} ''Flight International'', 31 January 2006.</ref><ref>Learmount, David. [https://www.flightglobal.com/news/articles/light-helicopters-set-for-autopilots-209998/ "Light helicopters set for autopilots."] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20151208062835/https://www.flightglobal.com/news/articles/light-helicopters-set-for-autopilots-209998/ |date=8 December 2015 }} ''Flight International'', 17 October 2006.</ref>

In addition to various civil roles, the EC120 has also been used by several military operators to conduct training, observation and light utility missions. Airbus Helicopter has promoted the type in a training capacity due to features such as positive control response, performance computation systems, modern instrumentation for ease of use, overall compact size, and a high level of cabin visibility.<ref name = "air handy"/> 

A wide range of optional equipment can be installed upon the EC120 B, this includes a [[wire strike protection system]], [[air conditioning]], sand filter, skis, windshield wipers, electrical external mirrors, a cargo sling, emergency flotation gear, [[forward looking infrared]] (FLIR) cameras, and external [[Searchlight|spotlights]].<ref name = "air handy"/> For corporate customers, the EC120 can be equipped with a ''Stylence'' interior, offering a luxurious interior with leather [[upholstery]], in-flight office and [[telecommunication]]s facilities, along with reduced noise and vibration levels via additional insulation.<ref>Peaford, Alan. [https://www.flightglobal.com/news/articles/ebace-eurocopter-keen-to-demonstrate-value-of-helic-371758/ "EBACE: Eurocopter keen to demonstrate value of helicopter role."] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20151208075056/https://www.flightglobal.com/news/articles/ebace-eurocopter-keen-to-demonstrate-value-of-helic-371758/ |date=8 December 2015 }} ''Flight International'', 15 May 2012.</ref>

==Operational history==
{{External media|topic= |width=20% |float=right |video1=[http://www.dailymotion.com/video/x2uncxz In-cockpit view of EC120 B startup sequence] |video2=[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jRf9N69HsRg Spanish EC120 display at NATO Days 2013 Ostrava] |video3=}}
The first EC120B was delivered in 1998. By 2008, Eurocopter had already delivered more than 550 Colibris to various customers.

In 2004, the [[United States Department of Homeland Security]] [[U.S. Customs and Border Protection]] (CBP) selected the EC120B to meet its Light Sign Cutter requirement, a program potentially involving 55 aircraft with a total value of US$75 million in then-year dollars.<ref>[http://www.defenseindustrydaily.com/codeveloped-in-china-us-homeland-security-orders-ec120-helis-01956/ "Co-developed in China: US Homeland Security Orders EC120 Helis."] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20151221215845/http://www.defenseindustrydaily.com/codeveloped-in-china-us-homeland-security-orders-ec120-helis-01956/ |date=21 December 2015 }} ''Defense Industry Daily'', 1 March 2006.</ref> In 2006, the CBP ordered 15 EC120B helicopters, with a further five aircraft since ordered.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.eurocopterusa.com/Media/News/NewsDetail.asp?ID=537|title=American Eurocopter|website=EurocopterUSA.com|access-date=4 December 2017|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20080802162824/http://www.eurocopterusa.com/Media/News/NewsDetail.asp?ID=537|archive-date=2 August 2008}}</ref>

The [[Spanish Air and Space Force]] (SASF) has procured a number of EC120s, which are used as rotary-wing trainers at the Armilla AFB. In 2003, the SPAF formed an [[Aerobatics|aerobatic display team]], the Patrulla ASPA, which use the type; a typical display involves five EC120s performing complex manoeuvers in addition to formation flight.<ref>[http://patrullaaspa.defensa.gob.es/Presentacion/Historia/index.html "Inicios de la Patrulla ASPA."] {{webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20151208100601/http://patrullaaspa.defensa.gob.es/Presentacion/Historia/index.html |date=8 December 2015 }} ''patrullaaspa.defensa.gob.es'', Retrieved: 29 November 2015.</ref><ref>López, Luis Javier. [http://sevilla.abc.es/andalucia/granada/20140518/sevi-patrulla-aspa-ejercito-aire-201405171751.html "La patrulla ASPA del Ejército del Aire celebra sus diez años en Granada."] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20151208161329/http://sevilla.abc.es/andalucia/granada/20140518/sevi-patrulla-aspa-ejercito-aire-201405171751.html |date=8 December 2015 }} ''sevilla.abc.es'', 18 May 2014.</ref>

In January 2008, the French Defense Ministry selected the EC120 as the [[French Army]]'s new lead-in rotary-wing trainer to replace the [[Aérospatiale Gazelle]]. 36 EC120 Bs equipped with [[Sagem]] avionics shall be operated through a 22-year [[public-private partnership]] (PPP) with operator Hélidax.<ref>[http://www.defense.gouv.fr/defense_uk/breves/premier_partenariat_public_prive_pour_la_defense "Premier partenariat public prive pour la defense."] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20080318135257/http://www.defense.gouv.fr/defense_uk/breves/premier_partenariat_public_prive_pour_la_defense |date=18 March 2008 }} ''French Ministry of Defense''.</ref> On 12 October 2010, the final EC120 was delivered to Hélidax.<ref>Parsons, Gary. [http://www.aircraftmagazine.co.uk/view_article.asp?ID=2573&pubID=3,1&t=1&s=0&p=36&i=10 "News: Last EC120 for French training delivered."] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20151208081918/http://www.aircraftmagazine.co.uk/view_article.asp?ID=2573&pubID=3,1&t=1&s=0&p=36&i=10 |date=8 December 2015 }} ''Aircraft Magazine'', 12 October 2010.</ref>

Since 2011, a number of EC120s have been operated by the traffic police of [[Iraqi Kurdistan|Kurdistan]], [[Iraq]].<ref name="akn_tphh">[http://www.aknews.com/en/aknews/3/278818/ "Kurdistan's traffic police to have helicopters."] {{webarchive |url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120718145308/http://www.aknews.com/en/aknews/3/278818/ |date=18 July 2012 }} ''AKNews'', 17 December 2011.</ref> As of 2014, the crews are trained to undertake surveillance and rescue missions.<ref>Bender, Jeremy. [http://www.businessinsider.sg/peshmerga-military-equipment-2014-6/9/#.VluV-MsnyUk "As The Kurds Mobilize In Iraq, Here’s A Look At What They Have In Their Arsenal."] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20151208064115/http://www.businessinsider.sg/peshmerga-military-equipment-2014-6/9/#.VluV-MsnyUk |date=8 December 2015 }} ''Business Insider'', 30 June 2014.</ref>

==Variants==

'''P120L''' prototype before type redesignation to '''EC120 Colibri'''.

* '''{{visible anchor|EC120B Colibri}}''': Standard designation.
* '''HC120''': Chinese-built variant of the EC120.

==Operators==

===Civil operators===
[[File:Sbsd-ec130-N621SB-vcv-041202-03-16.jpg|thumb|An EC120B of the [[San Bernardino County Sheriff's Department]]]]
[[File:SE-JJF Airbus EC 120B Colibri helicopter operated by Fiskflyg in Sarek National Park (DSCF1087).jpg|thumb|EC 120B operated by Fiskflyg in [[Sweden]]]]

The EC120 is used by both private individuals and companies, helicopter charter and training organisations as well as law enforcement and government use.

;{{flag|Australia}}
*[[Westpac Life Saver Rescue Helicopter Service]]<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.lifesavingvictoria.com.au/www/html/1404-westpac-lifesaver-rescue-helicopters.asp |title=Life Saving Victoria - Westpac Lifesaver Rescue Helicopters |access-date=25 November 2011 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20111109020433/http://www.lifesavingvictoria.com.au/www/html/1404-westpac-lifesaver-rescue-helicopters.asp |archive-date=9 November 2011 }}</ref>
;{{BRA}}
*[[Federal Highway Police (Brazil)|Federal Highway Police]]<ref name="EC-120B Colibri - Mato Grosso do Sul">{{cite web|url=http://resgatedoa-brasil.blogspot.com.br/2011/01/ec-120b-colibri-mato-grosso-do-sul.html|title=EC-120B Colibri – Mato Grosso do Sul|author=Jeferson Espindola|access-date=23 April 2013|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160304040223/http://resgatedoa-brasil.blogspot.com.br/2011/01/ec-120b-colibri-mato-grosso-do-sul.html|archive-date=4 March 2016|url-status=live}}</ref>
;{{flag|Canada}}
*[[Calgary Police Service]]<ref>{{cite web|title=HAWCS: Calgary's Eye in the Sky|url=http://www.helicoptersmagazine.com/content/view/91/38/|publisher=Helicopters Magazine|access-date=1 April 2013|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140305051045/http://www.helicoptersmagazine.com/content/view/91/38|archive-date=5 March 2014|url-status=dead}}</ref>  
*[[Royal Canadian Mounted Police]]<ref name="Reshaping Canada’s Parapublic Service">{{cite web| title =Reshaping Canada's Parapublic Service| url =http://www.eurocopter.com/w1/jrotor/69/ec120b.html| access-date =1 March 2013| url-status =dead| archive-url =https://web.archive.org/web/20090726093258/http://www.eurocopter.com/w1/jrotor/69/ec120b.html| archive-date =26 July 2009| df =dmy-all}}</ref>
*[[Edmonton Police Service]]<ref>{{cite web|last=Careless|first=James|title=Bringing in Backup|url=http://www.helicoptersmagazine.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=1715&Itemid=145|publisher=Helicopter Magazine|access-date=1 April 2013|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090817131405/http://www.helicoptersmagazine.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=1715&Itemid=145|archive-date=17 August 2009}}</ref> 
*[[York Regional Police]] 2002-2023<ref name="Reshaping Canada’s Parapublic Service"/>
*[[Winnipeg Police Service]]<ref>{{cite web|url= http://winnipeg.ca/police/fou/helicopter.stm|title= Winnipeg Police Service Flight Operations Unit|access-date= 16 April 2015|archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20150417030906/http://winnipeg.ca/police/fou/helicopter.stm|archive-date= 17 April 2015|url-status= live|df= dmy-all}}</ref>
;{{GER}}
*[[Federal Police (Germany)|Bundespolizei]]<ref>{{cite web|url= http://www.bundespolizei.de/DE/06Die-Bundespolizei/Ausstattung/Hubschrauber/hubschrauber_node.html/|title= Bundespolizei-Flugdienst|publisher= Bundespolizei.de|access-date= 27 April 2013|url-status= dead|archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20130312020309/http://www.bundespolizei.de/DE/06Die-Bundespolizei/Ausstattung/Hubschrauber/hubschrauber_node.html|archive-date= 12 March 2013|df= dmy-all}}</ref>
;{{LTU}}
*[[State Border Guard Service (Lithuania)|State Border Guard]]<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.pasienis.lt/ |title=Valstybės sienos apsaugos tarnyba |publisher=Pasienis.lt |date=30 April 2013|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140208001804/http://www.pasienis.lt/ |archive-date=8 February 2014 |url-status=live  }}</ref>
[[File:Eurocopter EC-120B Colibri AN1995429.jpg|thumb|right|An EC120 [[Taxiing#Hover taxi|hover taxis]] at [[Barretos Airport]]]]
;{{ESP}}
*[[National Police Corps of Spain|Spanish National Police]]<ref>{{cite web|author=Dirección General de la Policía|title=Servicio de Medios Aéreos-Helicópteros|url=http://www.policia.es/org_central/medios_aereos/m_m_helicopteros.html|access-date=2 March 2013|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130202015913/http://policia.es/org_central/medios_aereos/m_m_helicopteros.html|archive-date=2 February 2013|url-status=dead}}</ref>
;{{USA}}
*[[San Jose Police Department]]<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.sjpd.org/BFO/SpecialOps/#Air2|title=SJPD Special Operations Division|publisher=sjpd.org|access-date=17 July 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160727074646/http://www.sjpd.org/bfo/SpecialOps/#Air2|archive-date=27 July 2016|url-status=live}}</ref>
*[[Santa Clara County Sheriff's Office]]<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.mercurynews.com/ci_16962338|title=AIR SUPPORT UNIT Veteran pilot provides eye above Santa Clara County for sheriff's deputies|work=mercurynews.com|date=28 December 2010 |access-date=17 July 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160201201611/http://www.mercurynews.com/ci_16962338|archive-date=1 February 2016|url-status=live}}</ref>
*[[Baltimore Police Department]]<ref>{{cite web |url= http://www.airbushelicopters.com/site/en/press/Baltimore-Police-Department-Orders-Four-EC120-s_830.html?iframe=true&width=700 |title= EC120 Reaches 10,000 Flight Hour Milestone |publisher= eurocopter.com |access-date= 1 March 2013 |url-status= dead |archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20140201170222/http://www.airbushelicopters.com/site/en/press/Baltimore-Police-Department-Orders-Four-EC120-s_830.html?iframe=true&width=700 |archive-date= 1 February 2014 |df= dmy-all }}</ref>
*[[Austin Police Department]]<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.apdair1.com/APDAIR1.COM/About_The_Aircraft.html|title=About The Aircraft|publisher=apdair1.com|access-date=29 March 2013|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150803014003/http://www.apdair1.com/APDAIR1.COM/About_The_Aircraft.html|archive-date=3 August 2015|url-status=dead}}</ref>
*[[Albuquerque Police Department]]<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LXS8XhQlPXk|title=Albuquerque Police Department Air Support Unit – Air 1 Eurocopter EC-120B|date=6 November 2012 |publisher=youtube.com|access-date=26 December 2013|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140616011623/http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LXS8XhQlPXk|archive-date=16 June 2014|url-status=live}}</ref>
*[[Sacramento County Sheriff's Department]]<ref>{{cite web|title=Air Operations Bureau|url=https://www.sacsheriff.com/Pages/Organization/AirOps/AirOps.aspx|website=Sacramento County Sheriff's Department|access-date=17 June 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170317012750/http://www.sacsheriff.com/Pages/Organization/AirOps/AirOps.aspx|archive-date=17 March 2017|url-status=live}}</ref>
{{KUR}}

• Kurdistan traffic police; also used for rescue and reconnaissance<ref>{{Cite web |date=2014-08-15 |title=Iraq crisis: Arming the Kurds |url=https://www.bbc.com/news/world-middle-east-28803715 |access-date=2024-01-10 |website=BBC News |language=en-GB}}</ref>

===Military operators===
;{{CHN}}
*[[People's Liberation Army Ground Force|Chinese Army Ground Force]]<ref name="World Air Forces 2014">{{cite web|url =http://www.flightglobal.com/airspace/media/reports_pdf/emptys/108161/world-air-forces-2014.pdf|title =World Air Forces 2014|publisher =Flightglobal Insight|year =2014|access-date =30 March 2014|archive-url =https://web.archive.org/web/20140810163035/http://www.flightglobal.com/airspace/media/reports_pdf/emptys/108161/world-air-forces-2014.pdf|archive-date =10 August 2014|url-status =live|df =dmy-all}}</ref>
;{{FRA}}
* Hélidax ([[French Army Light Aviation|Army Aviation Training]])<ref>{{cite web |url= http://www.eurocopter.com/site/en/press/Eurocopter-delivers-the-last-of-36-EC120s-ordered-by-Helidax_723.html |title= Eurocopter delivers the last of 36 EC120s ordered by Hélidax |publisher= eurocopter.com |access-date= 1 March 2013 |url-status= dead |archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20101013221735/http://www.eurocopter.com/site/en/press/Eurocopter-delivers-the-last-of-36-EC120s-ordered-by-Helidax_723.html |archive-date= 13 October 2010 |df= dmy-all }}</ref> 
;{{INA}}
*[[Indonesian Army]]<ref>{{cite web | url=https://www.flightglobal.com/news/articles/analysis-2019-world-air-forces-directory-454126/ | title=ANALYSIS: 2019 World Air Forces Directory | publisher=DVV Media International Limited | website=flightglobal.com | access-date=30 December 2018 | archive-date=23 January 2019 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190123181847/https://www.flightglobal.com/news/articles/analysis-2019-world-air-forces-directory-454126/ | url-status=live }}</ref> – All 2 units were transferred to the Indonesian Air Force in September 2024.<ref>{{cite web |title=Pengalihan Penggunaan 2 unit Helikopter EC-120 B Colibri Puspenerbad untuk TNI AU |url=https://lanud-suryadarma.tni-au.mil.id/?p=4584 |access-date= 6 December 2024 |language=id|date= 28 September 2024|website=lanud-suryadarma.tni-au.mil.id |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20241207114926/https://lanud-suryadarma.tni-au.mil.id/?p=4584 |archive-date=7 December 2024 |url-status=dead}}</ref>
*[[Indonesian Navy]]<ref name="World Air Forces 2014"/>
*[[Indonesian Air Force]]<ref name="World Air Forces 2014"/>
[[File:Spanish Air Force EC-120B Colibri.jpg|thumb|A Spanish Air Force Colibri demonstrates its agility with a [[barrel roll]]]]
;{{MAS}}
*[[Royal Malaysian Air Force]]<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.gading.com.my/kasturi.html|title=Gading Kasturi|publisher=Gading|access-date=9 March 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150703144644/http://gading.com.my/kasturi.html|archive-date=3 July 2015|url-status=dead}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.malaysiandefence.com/rmaf-newest-helicopter-unveiled/|title=RMAF's newest helicopter unveiled|author=Marhalim Abas|publisher=Malaysian Defence|date=3 December 2015|access-date=22 January 2015|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160122025620/http://www.malaysiandefence.com/rmaf-newest-helicopter-unveiled/|archive-date=22 January 2016|url-status=live}}</ref>
;{{MYA}}
*[[Myanmar Air Force]]<ref>{{cite news|url=http://www.janes.com/article/66319/myanmar-commissions-transport-aircraft-helos|title=Myanmar commissions transport aircraft, helos|location=Alameda, California|publisher=[[IHS Jane's]]|last=Mazumdar|first=Mrityunjoy|date=16 December 2016|access-date=16 December 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20161217081423/http://www.janes.com/article/66319/myanmar-commissions-transport-aircraft-helos|archive-date=17 December 2016|url-status=live}}</ref>
;{{SIN}}
*[[Republic of Singapore Air Force]]<ref name="World Air Forces 2014"/>
;{{ESP}}
* [[Spanish Air and Space Force]]<ref name="World Air Forces 2014"/>

==Specifications (EC120 B)==
[[File:Eurocopter EC120 orthographical image.svg|right|450px]]
{{Aircraft specs
|ref=Jane's all the World's Aircraft 2007–08<ref name=JAWA2007-08>{{cite book |title=Jane's all the World's Aircraft 2007–08 |editor1-last=Jackson |editor1-first=Paul |year=2008 |publisher=Jane's Publishing Group |location=London |isbn=978-0-7106-2792-6 |pages=329–330}}</ref>
|prime units?=met
<!--
        General characteristics
-->
|crew=1
|capacity=4 pax / {{cvt|755|kg|0}} payload ({{cvt|700|kg|0}} max slung load)
|length m=11.52
|length note=overall
::::{{cvt|9.6|m|0}} fuselage
|height m=3.4
|height note=
|airfoil=<!--'''root:''' [[NACA airfoil|NACA ]]; '''tip:''' [[NACA airfoil|NACA ]]<ref name="Selig">{{cite web |last1=Lednicer |first1=David |title=The Incomplete Guide to Airfoil Usage |url=https://m-selig.ae.illinois.edu/ads/aircraft.html |website=m-selig.ae.illinois.edu |access-date=16 April 2019}}</ref>-->
|empty weight kg=960
|empty weight note=
|gross weight kg=
|gross weight note=
|max takeoff weight kg=1715
|max takeoff weight note=internal load
::::{{cvt|1800|kg|0}} external load
|fuel capacity={{cvt|416|L|USgal impgal}} in two tanks
|more general=
<!--
        Powerplant
-->
|eng1 number=1
|eng1 name=[[Turbomeca TM 319 Arrius 2F]]
|eng1 type=[[turboshaft]]
|eng1 kw=376
|eng1 note=for take-off
::::{{cvt|335|kW|0}} max continuous

|rot number=1
|rot dia m=10.0
|rot area sqm=78.54
|rot area note=
<!--
        Performance
-->
|max speed kmh=
|max speed note=
|max speed mach=<!-- supersonic aircraft -->
|cruise speed kmh=226
|cruise speed note=max
::::{{cvt|191|km/h|mph kn}} econ
|stall speed kmh=
|stall speed note=
|never exceed speed kmh=278
|never exceed speed note=
|minimum control speed kmh=
|minimum control speed note=
|range km=727
|range note=no reserves
|combat range km=
|combat range note=
|ferry range km=
|ferry range note=
|endurance=4 hours 32 minutes
|ceiling m=5180
|ceiling note=<br/>
*'''Hover ceiling IGE:''' {{cvt|2820|m|0}}
*'''Hover ceiling OGE:''' {{cvt|2320|m|0}}
|g limits=<!-- aerobatic -->
|roll rate=<!-- aerobatic -->
|climb rate ms=6.1
|climb rate note=
|time to altitude=
|disk loading kg/m2=21.8
|disk loading note=internal load
::::{{cvt|22.9|kg/m2|0}} external load
|fuel consumption kg/km=
|power/mass={{cvt|0.19|kW/kg}} internal load
::::{{cvt|0.1835|kg|0}} external load
|more performance=
<!--
        Armament
-->
|avionics=Vehicle and Engine Multifunction Display (VEMD) with First Limit Indicator (FLI) fitted as standard.<ref name = "air tech"/>
}}

==See also==
{{Portal|Aviation}}
{{aircontent
|related=
|similar=
|lists=
|see also=
|similar aircraft=
* [[Bell 206]]
* [[Bell 407]]
* [[Bell 505 Jet Ranger X]]<ref name=dub1>Mark Huber and Thierry Dubois. [http://www.ainonline.com/aviation-news/aviation-international-news/2013-08-03/bell-reveals-more-short-light-single "Bell Reveals more on ‘short light single’"] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140904083701/http://www.ainonline.com/aviation-news/aviation-international-news/2013-08-03/bell-reveals-more-short-light-single |date=4 September 2014 }}. AIN online, 3 August 2013. Accessed: 11 December 2013.</ref>
* [[Eurocopter AS350 Écureuil]]
* [[MD Helicopters MD 500]]
* [[PZL SW-4 Puszczyk]]
* [[Robinson R66]]
}}

==References==
{{Reflist|30em}}

==External links==
{{commons category|Airbus Helicopters H120 Colibri}}
* [https://web.archive.org/web/20100817162007/http://www.eurocopter.com/site/en/ref/Overview_56.html Official Eurocopter EC120 B Website]
* [https://web.archive.org/web/20100813190302/http://www.eurocopterusa.com/products/ec120-product.asp EC120 webpage]
* [https://www.scribd.com/document/244269233/srg-acp-fr23-05 UK-CAA & JAA Type Certificate Data Sheet]
* [https://web.archive.org/web/20060517081221/http://www.hahang.com.cn/en/web/pro_zhisheng_1.htm Harbin Aviation Industries] producer of the HC120
* [http://avia-dejavu.net/ec120.htm EC120 productionlist] details about and productionlist of the EC120 and HC120

{{AVIC Aero Products}}
{{Eurocopter}}
{{Spanish helicopters}}

[[Category:1990s international civil utility aircraft]]
[[Category:Airbus Helicopters aircraft]]
[[Category:Harbin aircraft]]
[[Category:1990s French helicopters]]
[[Category:1990s Chinese helicopters]]
[[Category:Fantail helicopters]]
[[Category:Single-turbine helicopters]]
[[Category:Aircraft first flown in 1995]]