Ten years after its arrival on the market, the EC135 is still a highly successful aircraft. At the end of June 2006, the fleet of EC135s had a total of more than 700,000 flying hours and, on 30 August, Eurocopter delivered the 500th EC135 to the Austrian operator ÖAMTC.

The EC135 has been delivered to more than 153 customers in 37 countries (see insets) and its success continues. Since its inception, Eurocopter has signed orders for more than 560 aircraft.
The EC135 is a versatile helicopter, which is most often operated in its two most popular sectors: EMS (80% of the world market share for twin-engine aircraft) and law enforcement (60% of world market share).
But, the EC135 is now also used in the oil industry for the transport of passengers to platforms in places such as China, the North Sea, and the Gulf of Mexico, where this helicopter displays considerable adaptability.
There is also demand from the military sector for a medium-sized aircraft to gradually replace the BO105s in service, and the EC635 (military version of the EC135) meets this type of need perfectly. In this sector, a new application for the EC135 has emerged and is growing: the training of military pilots.

The German Army, which operates 15 EC135s on its Bückeburg site to train its pilots, and the Spanish Army, which took delivery of two EC135s in late 2005 dedicated to the same activity (it will shortly receive 10 to 12 additional models) are the two launch customers for this type of mission.
But, the EC635's greatest success is unquestionably the contract signed on 25 April 2006 with Armasuisse for the supply of 18 EC635s and two EC135s for the specific purpose of training Swiss Army pilots.
This market trend is explained by the overall growth of the military sector and the gradual introduction of Tigers, and soon NH90s. The EC135 is an excellent training aircraft for pilots who will be required to fly a Tiger or an NH90.
It has IFR capabilities, a glass cockpit, night-vision goggles, and Crew Resources Management, and therefore allows pilots to familiarize themselves with the controls of a twin-engine helicopter. Eurocopter expects an increase in demand for the EC135 in this “training” slot in view of current invitations to bid.

Advantages of the EC135 for training missions
“The training of pilots is a new mission for the EC135, which it can accomplish perfectly because of all its advantages,” explained Markus Steinke, the EC135 Program Director.
The cockpit is very modern, clearly structured, and perfectly adapted to training. The helicopter is equipped for IFR and NVG operations, and offers perfect visibility: everything a trainee needs.
In addition, the cabin is designed to offer clear visibility, even for passengers sitting at the rear (instructor or trainee).

“Thanks to its energy-absorbing landing gear and seats, its crashworthy fuel tank, and its Fenestron®, the EC135 is also a very safe aircraft,” continued Mr. Steinke. Finally, the maneuverability provided by its BMR rotor makes flying intuitive and simple.
“In response to the growing demand for the EC135 we are going to increase our production by 20% in 2006, to deliver approximately 80 aircraft. For 2007 the goal will be approximately 30% higher, to exceed 100 aircraft a year. We are going to meet this challenge so that the EC135 is flown in every part of the world,” concluded Mr. Steinke