MORE THAN A NEW HELICOPTER


I asked Kohl to delve deeper into the AS365 N2 Dauphin and explain why it’s so special. It’s a 1991 model, so it has been around for a while. There are newer, more viable options, such as the Airbus H145, so why does the AS365 hold a special place in his heart? He said several things impress him, the engine, the aircraft’s versatile configurations (including search & rescue), its fuel endurance and redundant fuel systems.


For a helicopter that punches above its weight, it has a small profile. Classified in the light-to-medium twin category, it’s not as large as the Leonardo 139, 189 or Puma. This form-factor is critical where space is a challenge, such as offshore deck landing.


The pilot mentions the AS365 is surprisingly nimble and stable for its size and a pleasure to fly. You can move it to where you want without much restriction as long as power, weight, and balance are within limits.


Another great feature that impresses him is that the collective has a minus-two-degree pitch when fully down, providing the ability to suck itself down onto the deck; which is especially valuable on an unstable landing surface.


Auto hovering with the autopilot system and Doppler radar adds to the helicopter’s operational strength. The upgraded AS365 N3 has FADEC (full authority digital engine control) and other digital enhancements.


The cabin is spacious and able to handle the team, their gear, and the patient. This allows efficient treatment.


Their operational outer limit is 100 nm offshore, roughly an hour out, 45 minutes overhead the vessel, and a return to the point of departure.


Kohl concludes, “She’s our old girl, she is reliable, and we love her – what more can you want from a helicopter?”


76


Mar/Apr 2026


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