Hi...
I'm flying AS365N3 at the moment, and I used to fly N2 and N.
During more than 3000 FH on it, I have had a very few engine's problems ( mainly due to chip detection device, fixed now on the new N2 and N3).
I was flying offshore, ship pilot transfer, military and SAR, and the main problem was the engine power in the hover, on the N and when temperature was up to 25C..
I'm now flying a N3, for SAR purpose in a country where the normal temperature is ISO+20 (OAT is there 30-35C), and we still take off at 4300kg, hover at sea at 4100 (at the MCP).
For underslung operations, you can go to 1600kg on the N3...
Empty weight is approximatly 2800 kg, depending on the options installed on board..
A really good chopper to fly, easy to and very safe...
But just my point of view....
