FSX Heli-Development AS350 B3 'Helilink'

This add-on offers a fictional Helilink repaint for the Eurocopter AS350 B3, adapted for Microsoft Flight Simulator X. Created by J. Babich, it brings a fresh passenger and transport livery to Heli-Development’s payware AS350 B3 Ecureuil. This repaint is freeware, and it does not include the commercial base package. Methods for integration into your simulator are described below, along with insights into the aircraft’s design and the detailed repaint process.

Heli-Development AS350 B3 Helilink Repaint Specifics

The real-world Eurocopter AS350 B3 (often called the “Squirrel” or “Ecureuil”) is recognized for its single-engine configuration and high power output. Commercialized in 1997, this B3 variant includes a Turbomeca Arriel 2B1 engine under FADEC (Full Authority Digital Engine Control), permitting smoother throttle control and reliable performance. Its composite structure, including the Starflex rotor system, provides the right balance of agility and structural integrity.

The paint scheme presented here is inspired by Auckland’s Helilink fleet in New Zealand, which typically operates scenic flights, aerial tours, and general air transport. Although fictional in this context, the coloring aligns with the style used by many commercial operators around the globe.

Texture Integration and Aircraft.cfg Adjustments

To deploy this repaint in your simulator, follow these steps carefully:

1. Locate your main SimObjects/Rotorcraft/AS_350_B3 folder.
2. Place the folder named texture.EAGLE directly into AS_350_B3. (Ensure correct folder placement.)
3. Within texture.heli_alps_1, copy all texture files into the newly created texture.HELILINK. When prompted, do not overwrite existing paint files unless you intentionally want to replicate the heli_alps texture set.
4. Open your aircraft.cfg in a text editor. In the repaint list, insert a new paragraph (replace “xx” with the next appropriate number in sequence):
   
   [fltsim.xx]
title=As 350 Helilink
sim=AS350B3
model=heli_alps
panel=2
sound=
texture=HELILINK
kb_checklists=
kb_reference=
prop_anim_ratio=-1.74
atc_id=HB-ZIJ
ui_manufacturer=Eurocopter
ui_type=AS 350 B3
ui_variation=Helilink
description=The Eurocopter AS 350 B3 commercialised from 1997 is the "high performance" version of the single engine Ecureuil range.\n\nPowered by a Turbomeca Arriel 2B1 turbine engine it is equipped with the FADEC (Full Authority Digital Engine Control).\nIts design calls for widespread use of composite materials (airframe, "Starflex" main rotor, blades...).\nThe pilot benefits from the VEMD: a new generation of integrated instruments with dual LCD screens.
atc_heavy=0
atc_airline=
atc_flight_number=
5. Save and close your aircraft.cfg. Your repaint entry should now appear as a selectable variant.

Ensure the “xx” in the above example is correct in relation to your existing entries (for instance, [fltsim.8] or [fltsim.9]).

Licensing and Acknowledgments

This Helilink repaint is fully freeware, authored by J. Babich. No file within the repaint archive can be sold or distributed for any commercial gain. The base Heli-Development AS350 B3 Ecureuil model is payware, which can be acquired separately if you wish to employ this repaint in your flight simulator hangar. Developed with the SimShack store and other payware outlets in mind, it ensures realistic flight dynamics and visual fidelity for rotary-wing enthusiasts.

We hope you enjoy this new livery as you explore diverse terrains and flight operations. Many pilots find the AS350 B3’s exceptional handling satisfying for maneuvers ranging from gentle sightseeing to intricate utility tasks. Combined with this Helilink color scheme, it offers a unique representation of a professional helicopter operator’s style within Microsoft Flight Simulator X. Fly responsibly and savor the detailed painting!