The AS350 B2 is a lightweight single engine 6 seat helicopter equipped with a Arriel 1B turbine engine. It carries high-tech equipment and features a comfortable cabin. Design is largely based on composite materials (blades, Starflex type main rotor hub, airframe, cowlings) which entail substantially lower maintenance costs. The AS350 B2’s speed and range combined with a roomy, quiet cabin make it suitable for a variety of missions from EMT to executive transport. The Starflex rotor head and modular design provide long service life as well as simplified maintenance procedures when they finally are required. Reliability is enhanced by the simple, rugged design of the AS350 B2’s Arriel 1B turbine engine. Downtime is reduced by the modular construction of the engine (5 replaceable sub-assemblies).