Following more than two years of development, Ceds from Heli Simu France (HSF) took to the X-Plane.org Forum to announce the long-awaited release of their Eurocopter EC130 for X-Plane 12.
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About the EC130 from Heli Simu France
Initially announced in August of 2021, the team at Heli Simu France had been developing the Eurocopter EC130 for X-Plane 11. The developer made a late decision upon the release of X-Plane 12 to divert the project and develop the aircraft for the latest version of the simulator only. Unfortunately for X-Plane 11 users, this means that the helicopter is only compatible with X-Plane 12. However, those who have upgraded can enjoy all of the features that have been carefully implemented by the HSF team.
The version of the Eurocopter developed is the EC130 B4, which equips the common EC130 body with an Arriel 2B1 turboshaft engine. The more propellant Arriel 2B1 engine has been implemented in the product, where users may take notice of the enhanced throttle power and flight dynamics. The developer has paid great attention to the usability of the product, promising full VR compatibility, FPS-friendly interfaces, AviTab integration and English aircraft operation manuals.
The iconic EC130 from HSF features numerous customisable variants of the helicopter, so users can decide how they would like to fly. It is also equipped with the Garmin G500 to meet all navigational needs. With a high-quality model and 2K PBR textures, the systems are fully functional and include full FMOD 2.0 sound integration.
About the Helicopter
First taking flight in 1999, the EC130 is a single-engine light utility helicopter that replaced the world-renowned AS350, best known for its operation at high altitudes around Mount Everest Base Camp. With an 11-metre wingspan, the EC130 can propel itself to a top speed of 287km/h, although it usually cruises at about 240km/h. Commonly operating as a passenger helicopter, the EC130 adapts a six-seat or seven-seat configuration, transporting passengers across a range of more than 600 kilometres.
The two common variants of the EC130 are the B4 and T2 models. Whilst having similar specifications, the T2 model is equipped with the 14% more efficient Arriel 2D turboshaft engine, rather than the Arriel 2B1 turboshaft in the B4 model.
Release Details and Pricing
HSF’s EC130 is available now via the X-Plane.org Store for a price of USD $27.95 (Approximately €25.85).
In the flight simulation world, the availability of high-quality helicopters is continuously growing. For further updates on this product and other helicopter projects, be sure to check back in with FSNews.
