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Airbus Helicopters H120 / Eurocopter EC120 B Helicopter Specifications and Charter Rates

The Airbus Helicopters H120, also known as the Eurocopter EC120 B, is a light single-engine helicopter crafted for premium short-range travel, comfortably seating up to four passengers plus pilot in a quiet, climate-controlled cabin. Designed with versatility and style in mind, the H120 makes a statement with its elegant lines, Fenestron tail rotor, and advanced avionics, making it the preferred choice for urban transfers, scenic flights, and exclusive resort access.


For clients seeking a nimble, efficient, and cost-effective solution for city-to-city hops or point-to-point luxury transfers, the H120 stands out as a modern icon in the light helicopter segment. Explore its features, flight performance, and the most common questions private flyers have before they book this aircraft for their next journey.

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Airbus Helicopters H120 / Eurocopter EC120 B Overview

The H120/EC120 B is a light helicopter engineered for short-haul luxury missions, blending a compact footprint with outstanding agility. Accommodating up to four passengers in a spacious, unobstructed cabin, the aircraft is powered by a single Turbomeca Arrius 2F engine, delivering smooth, quiet performance and a maximum cruise speed of 120 knots. Its advanced design includes a shrouded Fenestron tail rotor for reduced noise, making it a discreet option for city operations and sensitive environments.


Charter clients are drawn to its ability to land at helipads, rooftops, and remote sites with minimal ground infrastructure, providing direct access to private estates, marinas, golf courses, and downtown heliports. The H120’s low operating costs and reliable systems ensure that it remains in high demand for executive, leisure, and sightseeing flights where style and efficiency are paramount.


Operators value its simple maintenance, robust build, and the proven dependability of Airbus Helicopters’ engineering. For discerning travelers, the result is a seamless, comfortable flight experience that brings the convenience and exclusivity of private aviation to a wide range of destinations and occasions.

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Airbus Helicopters H120 / Eurocopter EC120 B Specifications

The figures below summarize the performance and dimensions that matter most when you are matching an aircraft to a trip. They reflect typical configurations; exact numbers vary with weight, weather, and how a given aircraft is equipped.

Aircraft class:

Helicopter

Passenger capacity:

Up to 4 (typical), 4 maximum

Crew:

1 pilot

Range:

Approximately 710 nautical miles (around 816 statute miles)

High-speed cruise:

120 knots (about 138 mph)

Long-range cruise:

Approximately 110 knots

Service ceiling:

20000 fee

Engines:

One Turbomeca Arrius 2F turboshaft

Thrust:

Roughly lbf per engine

Takeoff distance:

About 1312 feet

Landing distance:

About 1148 feet

Average fuel burn:

Around 20 gallons per hour

Baggage capacity:

Approximately 0.5 cubic feet

First delivered:

Late 1990s

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The figures below summarize the performance and dimensions that matter most when you are matching an aircraft to a trip. They reflect typical configurations; exact numbers vary with weight, weather, and how a given aircraft is equipped.

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Airbus Helicopters H120 / Eurocopter EC120 B Range and Performance

With a maximum range of approximately 710 miles (616 nautical miles), the H120 is ideal for city-to-city commutes, coastal sightseeing, and quick hops to exclusive resorts. Direct routes such as Manhattan to The Hamptons, Nice to Monaco, or London to the Cotswolds can be completed efficiently and in comfort, without the need for ground traffic delays. | The helicopter’s cruise speed of 120 knots ensures swift transfers, and its ability to land in confined spaces makes it the perfect solution for urban missions or remote, off-grid locations. Its state-of-the-art Fenestron tail rotor further enhances safety and reduces noise, offering a discreet and smooth ride every time. | A compact landing footprint and rapid start-up times allow for flexible scheduling, ensuring clients enjoy unmatched convenience and privacy. The H120’s low fuel burn and high reliability translate into cost-effective operations, making it a favorite among luxury travelers and operators alike.

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Airbus Helicopters H120 / Eurocopter EC120 B Cabin Experience and Interior

The H120’s cabin is designed for comfort and panoramic visibility, boasting large windows that flood the interior with natural light and provide breathtaking views. A flat floor and unobstructed layout give passengers ample legroom, while air conditioning and noise-reducing features create a serene in-flight environment. | Seating is arranged in a club configuration, with plush leather seats and fold-out armrests, balancing elegance and practicality for both business and leisure flyers. Each seat offers direct access to the windows and is equipped with headset connections for crystal-clear communication. | The aircraft’s compact baggage compartment holds small overnight bags or golf clubs, making it ideal for weekend escapes or day trips. Whether you’re flying between meetings or escaping to a private villa, the H120’s cabin experience ensures you arrive refreshed and ready for what’s next.

Airbus Helicopters H120 / Eurocopter EC120 B Charter Cost and Hourly Rates

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Chartering a Airbus Helicopters H120 / Eurocopter EC120 B typically runs in the range of $1800 to $2500 per flight hour, though the figure you are quoted depends on several factors. Rates move with the route, the season, repositioning (or ferry) time, airport fees, crew costs, and how a specific aircraft is equipped. Peak travel periods and one-way trips that leave an aircraft far from its base tend to sit at the higher end, while round trips and flights that align with an operator's existing schedule can come in lower.

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It also helps to understand how charter pricing is structured. Most quotes are built around occupied flight hours plus those repositioning costs, landing and handling fees, taxes, and crew expenses. Because Jettly is a charter marketplace rather than an aircraft operator, you can compare live quotes from multiple FAA Part 135 and book the option that fits your route and budget.

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Empty-leg flights, the discounted repositioning trips that operators are keen to fill, can also bring the cost of a Airbus Helicopters H120 / Eurocopter EC120 B down significantly when the timing works in your favor. For an exact, current price on your specific trip, request a quote, and you will see real availability rather than an estimate.

Who Should Charter the Airbus Helicopters H120 / Eurocopter EC120 B?

The Airbus Helicopters H120 / Eurocopter EC120 B fits a wide set of missions, which is part of why it stays busy. It is a strong match for:

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Small executive teams traveling together to a meeting, site visit, or conference

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Regional and many transcontinental business trips that need to be completed in a single day

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Families or groups of up to eight heading to a vacation or event

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Travelers carrying bulkier baggage, such as golf clubs or ski gear

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Anyone who values flexible airport access and a stand-up cabin over the lowest possible price

While the H120 excels at short-haul, point-to-point missions for up to four passengers, it is not intended for long-range or high-capacity travel. For private flyers seeking swift, direct access to destinations inaccessible by fixed-wing aircraft—and where versatility, privacy, and efficiency are key—the H120 provides an unmatched solution in the light helicopter class.

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How the Airbus Helicopters H120 / Eurocopter EC120 B Compares to Other Helicopter

The Airbus H120/EC120 B stands out among light helicopters for its blend of advanced technology and premium passenger experience. Compared to other helicopters in its class, the H120 offers a quieter ride thanks to its Fenestron tail rotor, and a larger, unobstructed cabin that comfortably seats four.


Innovations such as the composite airframe and digital avionics set it apart, and its ability to operate from city centers, private estates, and remote helipads gives it a flexibility many rivals cannot match.


While larger helicopters may carry more passengers, the H120 is tailored for those who value privacy, convenience, and direct-to-destination access. Its enduring popularity with charter clients is a testament to its reliability and the luxury experience it provides.

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Airbus Helicopters H120 / Eurocopter EC120 B History and Background

The Airbus Helicopters H120, launched in the late 1990s as the Eurocopter EC120 B, set a new standard for light, single-engine helicopters with its advanced design and versatility. Developed through a collaboration between Airbus Helicopters, China National Aero-Technology Import & Export Corporation (CATIC), and Singapore Technologies Aerospace, the H120 was envisioned as a next-generation platform for executive and utility missions worldwide.


Key innovations included the Fenestron shrouded tail rotor for enhanced safety and ultra-low noise, a spacious, modular cabin, and digital avionics that simplified pilot workload. Its lightweight composite airframe and fuel efficiency quickly made it a favorite for private, corporate, and VIP operators.


The H120’s blend of performance, comfort, and operational flexibility has led to its adoption in over 50 countries, with hundreds delivered before production concluded in 2017. Today, it remains a top charter choice, celebrated for its reliability, safety, and the refined travel experience it delivers.

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Frequently Asked Questions

How Many Passengers Can the Airbus Helicopters H120 / Eurocopter EC120 B Carry?

The H120 accommodates up to four passengers in a spacious, club-seating cabin, with every seat offering large windows and excellent outside views. This layout is ideal for executive groups, families, or couples seeking a private travel experience.

What Is the Range of the Airbus Helicopters H120 / Eurocopter EC120 B?

The Airbus Helicopters H120 / Eurocopter EC120 B has a range of approximately 710 nautical miles, or roughly 816 statute miles. That is enough to fly most regional routes and many transcontinental trips nonstop, with the longest coast-to-coast legs occasionally needing a brief fuel stop depending on winds and load.

How Fast Does the Airbus Helicopters H120 / Eurocopter EC120 B Fly?

Its high-speed cruise is 120 knots (about 138 mph), with a long-range cruise near 110 knots. The aircraft's 20000-foot service ceiling lets it fly above most weather and traffic for a smoother, more direct trip.

How Much Does It Cost to Charter a Airbus Helicopters H120 / Eurocopter EC120 B?

Charter rates generally fall between roughly $1800 and $2500 per flight hour, depending on the route, season, repositioning, and fees. Because Jettly is a marketplace, you can compare live quotes from multiple Part 135 operators and book the best option for your trip; empty-leg flights can lower the cost further.

Does the Hawker Airbus Helicopters H120 / Eurocopter EC120 B Have a Stand-up Cabin?

Yes. The H120 features a roomy, climate-controlled cabin with wide windows for panoramic views, and an acoustically tuned interior for a quiet, relaxing flight. A compact baggage compartment stores small bags or sports equipment for your journey.

Is the Airbus Helicopters H120 / Eurocopter EC120 B Good for Transcontinental Flights?

The H120 is perfect for short-range missions such as city-to-city hops, airport transfers, or reaching remote luxury destinations. Its range covers most regional routes with ease, making it a versatile option for private helicopter charter.

Jettly gives you access to a global marketplace of more than 23,000 aircraft, including Airbus Helicopters H120 / Eurocopter EC120 B jets operated by vetted FAA Part 135 Part 135 carriers. Compare live quotes, check real availability, and book with full concierge support, whether you are planning a single regional hop or a recurring travel schedule.

Enter your route and dates to get instant pricing on the Airbus Helicopters H120 / Eurocopter EC120 B, or speak with our team about empty-leg deals and membership options that can bring your cost per trip down even further.

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