StandardAero has successfully concluded a comprehensive, multi-year program to modernize the entire fleet of AS350 helicopters for the Tunisian Air Force. The program’s completion was marked by the delivery of the final two refurbished AS350B aircraft from the company’s facilities in Langley and Richmond, British Columbia.
The extensive project, centered at StandardAero’s Langley site, involved the complete transformation of six 1980-era AS350 airframes into modernized, mission-ready training aircraft restored to like-new condition. The work scope was thorough, encompassing full structural refurbishment and alignment of fuselages and tailbooms, extensive composite repairs, mandatory 12-year airframe inspections, and custom interior and exterior finishing.
A core component of the modernization was a significant technological upgrade. Each aircraft was fitted with a state-of-the-art Garmin glass cockpit and a Genesys autopilot system, drastically improving situational awareness and pilot workload. Safety enhancements were paramount, including the installation of StandardAero’s proprietary crash-resistant fuel tanks and new crashworthy seating for the flight crew. The package was rounded out with a digital engine indication system and specialized mission equipment from industry partners like Thales and Canyon.
Supporting the airframe work, StandardAero’s Richmond facility contributed over forty refurbished dynamic components to the program. This critical support included nineteen major gearbox assemblies, such as Epicyclics and Tail Rotor Gearboxes, ensuring the long-term reliability of the helicopters’ drive systems.
The Tunisian Air Force has expressed high satisfaction with the program’s outcome, formally commending the StandardAero team for their unwavering commitment to quality, professionalism, and safety throughout the complex process.
This milestone delivery underscores StandardAero’s world-class capability in full-fleet lifecycle management and complex aircraft modification. The company extends its congratulations to every team member involved for their expertise, dedication, and hard work in achieving this significant accomplishment, which sets the stage for future collaborative successes.
