As the Eurocopter EC145 T2 light twin helicopter has completed “hot and high” testing, the manufacturer has released “promising” performance estimates. While being “conservative,” Eurocopter said that the EC145’s two Turbomeca Arriel 2E turboshafts, each producing 894 shp, will deliver 21-percent higher takeoff power than the original EC145. A 39-percent improvement is also expected for one-engine-inoperative maximum continuous power. The ceiling for hover in ground effect, now 9,600 feet at mtow, is forecast to increase by 40 percent. The EC145 T2’s Arriel 2E turboshafts are a major upgrade from the EC145, which is powered by a pair of Arriel 1E2s. It also features a fenestron shrouded tailrotor and the Helionix avionics suite, which Eurocopter developed in house. A four-axis autopilot will be standard, unusual on rotorcraft of this size. FAA certification is slated for 2013. Customers had a chance to see the aircraft this week at American Eurocopter’s headquarters in Grand Prairie, Texas.