[5] One such measure was the use of a rolled sheet structure, a manufacturing technique adapted from the automotive industry; another innovation was the newly developed Starflex main rotor.

[7] Over time, the AS350 Écureuil/AStar has received further development; while the aircraft's design remains broadly similar, aspects such as the rotor system, powerplants, and avionics have been progressively improved.

[5] Conversion programs and addons for AS350s have been produced and are offered by third-party 'aftermarket' aerospace firms in addition to those available directly from the type's prime manufacturer.

[12] The H125 Final Assembly Line (FAL), which will serve both the local and export markets, will be introduced by Airbus with Tata Advanced Systems in India.

[20] Much of the AS350's avionics are provided by Garmin, such as the GI 106A course-deviation indicator, GNS 430 VHF/VOR/localizer/glideslope indicator/Global Positioning System receiver, GTX 327 Mode A and C transponder, and GMA 340H intercom.

Public service operators, such as those in law enforcement, often have forward looking infrared (FLIR) cameras and other mission systems installed on their aircraft.

Other optional equipment on offer to operates had included real-time data links, rescue hoists, underslung cargo hooks, electrical external mirrors, search lights, tactical consoles, night vision goggle-compatibility, moving-map system, internal cabin tie-downs, second battery kit, sand filters, wire strike protection system, 4-channel radio, tail rotor arch, cabin floor windows, and removable seats.

[8][21]Modern aircraft have refinements beyond those featuring on older models; these changes include dual-channel FADEC-equipped engines, increasing use of digital avionics in the cockpit, decreased maintenance costs, a re-designed cabin, and a comfortable Stylence interior (optional).

[27] The record was increased to 7,800 m (25,590 ft), during the rescue of Sudarshan Gautam between Camps III & IV in Everest's Yellow Band on the morning of 20 May 2013.

[32] The AS350 AStar has been successful in the US market, having become the most popular helicopter platform in use with American governmental agencies, law enforcement being a typical use of the type, by 2015.

[44] In the United Kingdom, the Defence Helicopter Flying School operated 26 AS350, designated Squirrel HT1, for the training of pilots of Britain's armed forces; the type was introduced from 1997 onwards as a replacement for the Aérospatiale Gazelle.

[49] In June 2015, the Argentine Defense Ministry ordered 12 H125s to replace their 1970s era Aérospatiale SA 315B Lamas for para-public support missions, such as search and rescue operations, inside Argentina.

This versatile helicopter is frequently equipped with a Bambi Bucket, capable of carrying up to 1,500 liters of water, making it an effective tool for aerial firefighting.

The AS350's agility, power, and ability to operate in challenging terrains, such as dense forests and mountainous regions, make it invaluable for combating wildfires.

Argentina Austria Botswana Brazil Burkina Faso Cambodia Canada Central African Republic Chad Chile Denmark Ecuador Egypt France Gabon Georgia Guatemala Iceland Indonesia Israel Jordan Kenya Lesotho Madagascar Malawi Namibia Nepal Pakistan Paraguay Philippines Portugal Qatar Russia South Africa United Kingdom United States Ukraine Australia United Kingdom Data from Brassey's World Aircraft & Systems Directory 1999/2000[137]General characteristics Performance Avionics Vehicle and Engine Monitoring Display (VEMD) with First Limit Indicator (FLI) fitted as standard.