EUROCOPTER EC 120 SERIES

Eurocopter EC120 Colibri Helicopters for Sale — Light Turbine Elegance

The Eurocopter EC120 Colibri is a modern five-seat light turbine helicopter developed through an international consortium bringing together Eurocopter (France and Germany), CATIC (China), and Singapore Technologies Aerospace — a genuinely global aircraft that combines French aeronautical refinement, German engineering rigor, and Asian manufacturing partnership. Entering service in 1997, the EC120 established itself quickly as one of the quietest, most refined, and most fuel-efficient single-engine turbine helicopters in its class — characteristics that make it attractive to private owners, flight schools, corporate operators, and police aviation units that value cabin comfort and low noise footprint alongside performance.

What Makes the EC120 Stand Out

Three design features distinguish the EC120 from competing light turbines in its category. First, the fenestron tail rotor — the shrouded design that Eurocopter pioneered — reduces external noise dramatically compared to conventional exposed tail rotors, making the EC120 welcome in noise-sensitive environments where other helicopters attract complaints. Second, the Turbomeca Arrius 2F engine with FADEC provides excellent fuel efficiency and smooth power delivery, with operating costs that are competitive with larger piston helicopters despite the turbine's superior reliability. Third, the spacious five-seat cabin with club-style seating offers a passenger experience that exceeds what most competitors in the light turbine category provide.

Key Specifications

• Engine — Turbomeca Arrius 2F, 504 shp with FADEC
• Seats — 1 pilot + 4 passengers
• Cruise speed — approximately 120 knots
• Range — approximately 380 nm
• MTOW — 1,680 kg
• Noise level — among the lowest of any production turbine helicopter

Typical EC120 Operations

Private owners value the EC120 for personal and family transport where passenger comfort and quiet operation matter. Flight schools use it as a turbine trainer. Corporate operators appreciate the VIP cabin experience in a manageable, economical package. Police aviation units in urban areas choose it specifically for its low noise footprint and compatibility with night vision goggles. Chinese operators — benefiting from the CATIC partnership's influence on type support — represent a significant portion of the global EC120 fleet.

Find Your EC120 Colibri on Airplane Trade

Browse Eurocopter EC120 Colibri helicopters for sale on Airplane Trade. Low-time personal use examples, training aircraft, and police aviation variants from verified sellers worldwide. Connect directly with sellers who provide complete airworthiness records and Arrius engine program enrollment status for each aircraft listed.