Eurocopter, an EADS company, will use PW206B3 engines to power the next EC135 helicopter, the EC135 P3. The announcement was made during the Helicopter Association International (HAI) HELI-EXPO in Las Vegas, Nev. Pratt & Whitney Canada (P&WC) is a United Technologies Corporation company (NYSE:UTX).

"The PW200 family was created to respond to demand for a new-generation engine for the light single- and twin-engine helicopter market," said Richard Dussault, Vice-President, Marketing, P&WC. "The engine has filled its role flawlessly over the years and it now powers more light twin helicopters than any other engine in the market. The engine continues to be highly regarded because of its high power-to-weight ratio, its reliability and solid environmental performance."

The PW206B3 engine is a growth variant of the highly successful PW206B2, an advanced-technology engine with a solid reputation for reliability. The PW206B3 has the same engine architecture as the PW206B2, which is designed for ease of maintenance, and offers up to 10% more thermal takeoff power in hot and high conditions. The engine has automatic start and automatic power sharing between the two engines. It offers the lowest emission levels in its class and competitive maintenance costs. Engine line maintenance can be performed without engine removal or scheduled oil change or vibration monitoring and offers a 4,000-hour TBO with on-condition HSI (hot-section inspection).

The EC135 is a light, multi-purpose twin-engine helicopter incorporating advanced design and technology. "With an entry into service expected in 2014, the upgraded EC135 P3 version will offer significant performance improvements, increased takeoff weight and power reserves, as well as reduced fuel consumption - all without increasing the helicopter's overall weight," said Roman Seidel, Eurocopter's Vice President of the EC135/EC635 program.

Launch customers for the PW206B3-powered EC135 P3 are Air Methods, an American company that specialises in emergency medical transport, and Norsk Luftambulanse, a Norwegian operator performing medical evacuation missions.