With the delivery of its AS355 NP aircraft to Phoenix Heli-Flight, the Fort-Erie based company introduced its 500th helicopter into the Canadian marketplace last week.

The new version of the aircraft meets the demand customers worldwide have for corporate transport or various utility missions.

The upgraded helicopter integrates improvements to significantly reduce the operating and maintenance costs for end users, making the AS 355 NP the best value for money in its category, says the company.

Eurocopter Canada has a customer support network that spans the entire country.

The company celebrated the grand opening of a new 50,000 square-foot expansion in May, clearing the path for 30 new high skilled jobs in Fort Erie in 2008.

The newly expanded Gilmore Road manufacturing facility -- which has grown to 135,625 square feet -- will contribute to Ontario's aerospace industry and manufacturing base.

Eurocopter Canada employs 200 people in town.