The first production Eurocopter EC 225 medium twin made its maiden flight in late June. Eurocopter said the “flawless” event lasted just over two hours. The EC 225 is powered by two Turbomeca Makila 2A modular turboshafts, an engine that has just been certified by the European Aviation Safety Agency (EASA). Each of the powerplants generates 2,413 shp in contingency mode–14 percent more than the previous model. The modular feature makes for easier inspection and maintenance, and the FADEC, with dual duplex channels, offers “the highest level” of reliability.

The first production engines conforming to the certified standard were due to be delivered at press time. Production is now geared to the delivery of 14 military EC 725 variants to the French Air Force over the next 16 months. The first delivery of the civil EC 225, to the UK’s Bristow Helicopters, is expected next July.