Eurocopter EC155

Airbus Helicopters H155
Company type	Civil helicopter
Industry	Aerospace
Predecessor	Eurocopter Dauphin series
Founded	1997
Founder	Eurocopter
Successor	Airbus Helicopters H160
Products	Medium-lift civil helicopters

The Airbus Helicopters H155—previously known as the Eurocopter EC155—is a medium-lift helicopter designed for long-range passenger transport, developed by Eurocopter as an evolution of the Dauphin series specifically for civil aviation purposes. This twin-engine rotorcraft accommodates up to 13 passengers alongside its crew. It is marketed for diverse roles including passenger transit, offshore operations, VIP and corporate travel, as well as medical evacuation. Following Eurocopter's rebranding to Airbus Helicopters in 2015, the EC155 designation was updated to H155. The model was eventually succeeded by the Airbus Helicopters H160.

Development

Originally referred to as AS365 N4, the EC155 was developed from the AS365 N3 Dauphin 2 with a focus on significantly enlarging the cabin area. Development commenced in September 1996 and was publicly unveiled at the 1997 Paris Air Show. The prototype took its maiden flight on 17 June 1997, utilizing a modified Dauphin airframe; this was followed by the pre-production EC155 B in March 1998. Certification from French and German aviation authorities was obtained in December 1998, leading to production initiation shortly thereafter, with unit prices ranging between US$7 million and US$8 million depending on specifications.

Production deliveries began in March 1999, with the German Federal Police acting as the first customer. By mid-2003, approximately 50 helicopters had been sold, predominantly serving VIP transport and offshore clients.

The enhanced EC155 B1 variant introduced more powerful engines to boost performance under high-altitude and hot climate conditions, along with an increased maximum takeoff weight (10,846 lb compared to 10,580 lb). Deliveries of this upgraded model started in November 2002, with the Hong Kong Government Flying Service as its initial operator. In early 2003, Eurocopter explored a further improved version intended to compete against rivals such as the AgustaWestland AW139 and to meet military operational needs.

Several key elements of the EC155—including its rotor system, which operates at reduced rotational speeds—were adapted for use in the experimental Eurocopter X3, which unofficially set a speed record of in 2013. Additionally, an EC155 was utilized in 2015 as a test platform for aerodynamic innovations like advanced rotor blades and stabilizers that contributed to the development of the Airbus Helicopters H160.

In a strategic move during 2015, Airbus Helicopters collaborated with Korean Aerospace Industries (KAI) to transfer primary manufacturing responsibilities for the EC155 to South Korea. Post-2018, KAI assumed exclusive production duties while both companies continued joint marketing and development efforts. The EC155 serves as the foundation for KAI’s Light Civil Helicopter (LCH) and Light Armed Helicopter (LAH), both featuring redesigned cockpits along with upgraded gearboxes and rotor blades. The LAH variant is equipped with a chin-mounted 20 mm cannon, side-mounted guided rocket systems, defensive countermeasures, and can carry between six and ten troops. The LCH entered operational service in 2020, followed by the LAH in 2022, intended to replace older platforms such as the MD 500 Defender and AH-1J/S Cobra. Airbus anticipates domestic demand in South Korea for roughly 100 LCH units and 214 LAHs, while projecting an international market potential of 300 to 400 LAHs aimed at supplanting aging attack helicopters.

Design

The EC155 B introduces a revamped cabin layout that provides a 30% increase in passenger capacity compared to earlier Dauphin variants, alongside a 130% expansion in luggage compartment space. Notable improvements include a five-blade Spheriflex composite main rotor combined with a shrouded Fenestron tail rotor, which greatly diminishes vibration levels. Propulsion is delivered by two 635 kW (851 shp) Turbomeca Arriel 2C1 turboshaft engines equipped with dual-channel [[FADEC|Full Authority Digital Engine Control (FADEC)]. The EC155 B1 model upgrades the powerplants to 697 kW (935 shp) Arriel 2C2 engines. An optional anti-icing feature allows for operations in colder environments. The cockpit is fully digital, featuring the 'Avionique Nouvelle' integrated flight control system and Eurocopter's Vehicle and Engine Management Display (VEMD) presented on active matrix liquid crystal screens. Additional technology includes a four-axis digital autopilot integrated with the FADEC systems for comprehensive flight envelope protection, as well as an optional Health and Usage Monitoring System (HUMS).

Initially launched with three configurations, Eurocopter broadened the EC155 range in 2005 to include five distinct variants. The Passenger Transport model offers seating for 12 passengers or 13 in utility mode, plus accommodation for one or two crew members. The VIP/Corporate Transport variant is designed for up to eight executives, featuring lounge and work areas. The Casualty Transport configuration supports two stretchered patients and up to four medical personnel, or alternatively, four stretchers with two medical staff onboard. The additional configurations introduced in 2005 focus on offshore missions and police/parapublic functions such as patrol duties, airborne surveillance, SAR, and EMS, outfitted with specialized mission equipment.

Variants

EC155 – Initial prototype developed by modifying an existing Dauphin airframe.
EC155 B – First production variant powered by twin Turbomeca Arriel 2C1 engines.
EC155 B1 – Enhanced version fitted with two Arriel 2C2 engines, featuring increased maximum takeoff weight for improved performance in hot and high conditions.
AS565 UC – Preliminary military derivative concept.
LCH/LAH – Advanced evolution developed by Korea Aerospace Industries, with the LCH entering operational service in 2020 and the LAH scheduled for introduction in 2022.

Operators

The EC155 is utilized by private owners, corporate entities, charter services, government organizations, and offshore transportation providers within the oil and gas industry.