>> Flightline | EC120 Calliopé – ALAT
The French military training helicopter
The EC120B Colibri, nicknamed ‘Calliopé’ in the ALAT, is a light helicopter used for initial pilot training at the École de l’Aviation Légère de l’Armée de Terre (EALAT) at Cannet-des-Maures. This small civilian helicopter, originally designed by Eurocopter (now Airbus Helicopters), has been adapted to military requirements to train future combat helicopter pilots.
A modern learning platform
Brought into service in the 2000s, the Colibri has modernised the training of young pilots, replacing the Gazelle and Alouette for the first few hours of flight. Light, reliable, equipped with modern instruments and excellent visibility, it is an ideal bridge to more complex aircraft such as the Puma, NH90 or Tiger.
The ‘Calliopé’ version used by the ALAT is distinguished by a cockpit adapted to training, a modernised instrument panel and a recognisable military livery.
Technical specifications
Type: Light training helicopter
Manufacturer: Eurocopter (Airbus Helicopters)
Powerplant: 1 Turbomeca Arrius 2F engine
Power : 504 hp
Maximum speed : ~280 km/hRange: Approximately 700 km
Main rotor span: 10 m
Length: 9.6 m
Height: 3.4 m
Capacity: 4 to 5 people
Aircraft type: Chasseur