Aircraft Overview
| Aircraft | Airbus H125 |
| Also Known As | AS350 Écureuil / AStar |
| Type | Single-Engine Helicopter |
| Engine | Safran Arriel 2D (847 shp) |
| Electrical System | 28V DC |
GPU Requirements
The Airbus H125 is the world’s best-selling single-engine helicopter with over 5,500 delivered. It serves EMS, law enforcement, utility, VIP transport, and aerial work roles globally. Ground power needs are modest by turbine standards — the Safran Arriel 2D starts easily in moderate temperatures — but cold-weather operations above 5,000 ft MSL can demand significantly more cranking amps. The electrical system draws 80–120A continuous depending on installed mission equipment (FLIR pods, moving maps, EMS patient monitors, radio repeaters). When selecting a GPU, factor in the total avionics load during pre-flight and hot refueling stops, not just starting current. Training operators who cycle starts frequently should prioritize lithium GPUs for their higher cycle life and faster recovery between starts.
| Specification | Requirement |
|---|---|
| Starting Voltage | 28V DC |
| Peak Amps Required | 1,200–1,800A |
| Continuous Draw | 80–120A (mission equipment dependent) |
| Battery Chemistry | Lithium preferred (weight savings for remote ops) |
| Recommended Unit Weight | Under 35 lbs |
| Duty Cycle | Single start per charge minimum |
Our Recommendation
Primary pick: Red Box RB50A or Start Pac Mini
Compact 28V DC units under 30 lbs that deliver sufficient starting amps for the Arriel 2D. The H125 operates in everything from EMS to heli-ski utility — portability matters as much as raw output. The RB50A at 28 lbs with 1,800A peak is the sweet spot for most H125 operators.
Alternative: Powervamp PS1228 or Tronair Hybrid 28
Cold Weather & Special Operations
For high-altitude, cold-weather operations (SAR, heli-ski, utility above 5,000 ft), step up to the Red Box RB75A for additional thermal margin. Below -15°C, lithium GPUs maintain output significantly better than lead-acid — a critical advantage at remote mountain landing zones where there’s no opportunity to recharge. Some Canadian Rockies and European Alps operators carry the GPU in the external cargo basket, making weight the primary selection criterion after voltage and amperage.
Related Guides
For a broader comparison of GPU manufacturers, see our Best Aircraft GPU 2026 review. For battery chemistry decisions, our Lead Acid vs Lithium analysis breaks down total cost of ownership. The GPU Sizing Guide covers voltage, amperage, and duty cycle calculations for any aircraft.
Product Categories
- Battery Start Units — portable starting power
- Continuous Power Supplies — sustained avionics power
- Combination GPU — start + continuous in one unit
- Frequency Converters — 400Hz AC power
- Aircraft Tugs — ground movement equipment
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I start an H125 with a lead-acid GPU?
Yes. Lead-acid units work fine for the H125 in moderate temperatures, but lithium GPUs offer 40–60% weight savings — critical when the unit rides in the cargo basket during remote operations where every pound of useful payload matters.
What GPU does Airbus recommend for the H125?
Airbus specifies a 28V DC external power source with minimum 1,500A peak capability in the aircraft maintenance manual. They do not endorse specific brands, so any unit meeting or exceeding these specifications is acceptable for normal operations.
How much continuous power do H125 avionics draw?
Base avionics draw approximately 60–80A. Fully equipped mission aircraft with FLIR, moving maps, EMS monitoring, and multiple radios can draw 100–120A continuous. Factor the full mission equipment load when sizing your GPU for pre-flight checks.
What’s the best GPU for H125 heli-ski operations?
The Red Box RB50A lithium unit is the most popular choice among heli-ski operators due to its 28 lb weight and 1,800A peak output. It fits in the cargo basket and provides reliable cold-weather starts at altitude where lead-acid units would struggle.
Editorial Policy
Red Box Power is editorially independent. We may earn commissions from links on this page, but this never influences our rankings or recommendations. All GPU assessments are based on published specifications and verified operator feedback.