The Aérospatiale AS-350 Écureuil became one of the most successful light utility helicopters in aviation history, revolutionizing civilian and military rotorcraft operations worldwide. First flown on June 27, 1974, it was a single-engine turbine helicopter capable of carrying six passengers or equivalent cargo with a single pilot. With an overall length of 35 feet and a main rotor diameter of 35 feet, the AS-350 achieved remarkable versatility in roles from offshore oil support to emergency medical services. The aircraft was manufactured by Aérospatiale of France, later becoming part of Airbus Helicopters.
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